Education UAE Issue 7 - The Schools Out Issue by tpg media

JULY 2021 - THE SCHOOL’S OUT ISSUE

ENROLMENT ACROSS PRIVATE SCHOOLS UP 3.9% SINCE SEPTEMBER 2020 – KHDA

HOW US COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS CAN CHANGE LIVES

IS YOUR CHILD GETTING THE BEST USE OUT OF THE SCHOOL COUNSELLOR?

SPLASH INTO FUN THIS SUMMER

THANK YOU!

his has undoubtedly been one of the strangest, most demanding academic years on record. Students and teachers have always faced difficulties, but it was even more challenging in the midst of the pandemic. So, guys and girls, be proud of yourselves – you made it! On a positive note, this academic year, in particular, has been a chance to reimagine what the regular school year will look like and make sure it meets kids’ educational and social needs after many months of dealing with Covid-19. Education Perfect, for instance, founded in New Zealand and developed by and with teachers over a 10-year period, is a complete digital teaching and learning toolkit for schools, helping teachers redefine teaching and learning experiences in line with the requirements of the 21st- century. Meanwhile, the ID1330 myViewBoard Pen Display has been developed to eradicate two main challenges teachers face in distance learning: (1) the difficulty of using a mouse to add annotations and (2) the ability to maintain eye contact with students. Read about both of these exciting products, alongside Catherine O’Farrell, Group Head with Bloom Education, who explains about the power of reflective practice and how to put it into action.

We also look back at The School and Nursery Show, for which Education UAE was a proud sponsor. Running since 2014, there was a tremendous amount of excitement about the return of this live and in-person event, which was absolutely buzzing with parents, educators and children. For the first time in 18 months, parents could speak directly to UAE schools and nurseries and gather valuable information to help them make the critical decision as to where to register their children. On a lighter note, we speak to Evo Hannan, the outgoing Head of Design and Innovation at Dwight School Dubai, who has informed and entertained his students in a manner that will live with them for the rest of their lives. There is, naturally, much more within these pages, but I won’t spoil the surprise, take a look for yourself, and be amazed at the people, projects, and products that make the education world such a fascinating and inspiring one. Finally, the school year is over, and for many students and parents, it’s a sigh of relief after a different and challenging year. However, none of it would have been possible without all of the teachers who adapted to meet the needs of their students. To every one of them, we say thank you! Rod Millington Editor-in-Chief

Rod Millington has been active in the commercial writing sector for over 30 years, with work published throughout Europe, North America, the Far East, and the Middle East. During this time, he has had the privilege to speak to a wide range of fascinating and entrepreneurial people, from captains of industry through to pop icons such as Sir Paul McCartney. In total, Rod has had over 25 million words committed to print across more than 35 publications for clients as diverse as FIFA, Cunard, Virgin Atlantic Airlines, and Dubai Municipality.

Complimentary Copy

TEAM Belinda Breeze Daniel Murad Eddie Rayner Laura Wojciechowski Rod Millington

CONTACT

educationuae@tpg.media www.education-uae.com

SOCIAL MEDIA

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This magazine is published by TPG Publishing LLC. All material is the copyright of TPG Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. This magazine is the property of TPG Publishing LLC. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form whole or part without written permission of the Managing Director of TPG Publishing LLC. While every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequence arising from it. In the case of company or product reviews or comments, these have been based upon the true and honest opinion of the Editor at the time of going to press.

All our publications are printed using recycled paper.

BECAUSE WE CARE

4 Contents

Abu Dhabi Updates Operating Protocols For Children’s Nurseries

Simple Ways To Introduce Social Emotional Learning (SEL) In Your Classroom

Five Factors Aspiring Medical Students Should Know

THE FEATURES IN THIS ISSUE INCLUDE… DID YOU KNOW Knowledge And Human Development Authority

8 New Guide For Parents Promotes Inclusive Education In Dubai 10 Dubai Students Report Improved Well-being

Abu Dhabi Department Of Education And Knowledge

10 Abu Dhabi School Students To Return To Campus In Upcoming Academic Year 13 ADEK Opens Registration For National Robot Olympiad Qualifier

Sharjah Private Education Authority 12 SPEA Participates In SCRF 2021 With Creative Platform

Education Perfect

14 A Striking New Approach To Supporting Schools Across The UAE?

The New Normal

18 Academia Is No Longer Enough 22 Teacher Well-being And Its Impact On Student Learning

EXCELLENCE IN

39 Gen Z Reveals How The Pandemic Has Affected Their Social, Career And Mental Health Views 50 Simple Ways To Introduce Social Emotional Learning (SEL) In Your Classroom 52 Creating A New Generation Of Performers

Sports

58 ISP Launches A Football School Programme In Spain With Villarreal 60 It Takes Balance To Be A Good Gymnast 62 Dubai Students Join Functional Movement Revolution

Higher Education

64 See The World Differently? 66 Five Factors Aspiring Medical Students Shold Know 70 Abu Dhabi University Tops UAE’s Employability Rankings 72 Education, Experience And Employment – The 3Es Of Business Education 74 How Us College Scholarships Can Change Lives

KNOW IT ALL! OUR WORLD

Pre-school

26 State-of-the-art Space Designed To Help Children Thrive 27 Bright Learners Accommodates Parents Through Its Prekindergarten Curriculum

76 Star International Mirdif Launchesits ‘ocean Ambassadors’ Programme 80 How You Can Play A Role In Conserving Water And Safeguarding Our Planet

Schools

PARENT CORNER

28 The Schools And Nursery Show 32 Pearson Highlights Emerging Trends In The Education Industry 34 Al Futtaim Education Foundation Provides Students With Vocational Internships 36 Dubai Student Wins Title Of ACCA Middle East Finance Competition

82 Is Your Child Getting The Best Use Out Of The School Counsellor? 84 Entertainment Technology And Its Threats On Young Minds

THE LOUNGE 86 A Next-generation Solution To Support The New Normal In Education 88 The Lego® Group Brings Twoplayer Action To The Lego® Super Mario™ Universe 90 OVS Launches Kidswear Collection

TRAVEL 94 Beat the Heat this Summer at Dubai’s Must-Visit Attractions! 98 You Have Vacation Dreams; We Have Dream Vacations! 109 Where Can You Travel To From Dubai This Summer?

HEALTH AND NUTRITION 118 Life Tastes Better With Kibsons 123 Protein Shakes Could Lead To A Reduced Lifespan 124 Eat Well, Be Well

6 Did You Know?

KHDA

ALL-SEASONS ED

DUBAI: ENROLMENT ACROSS PRIVATE SCHOOLS UP 3.9% SINCE SEPTEMBER 2020 – KHDA Student enrolment at Dubai’s private schools has increased by 10,000, a rise of 3.9% since September 2020, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority’s (KHDA) has revealed in its latest data report on private education in Dubai. Moreover, for the first time since schools re-opened in September, more students (52%) are engaging in faceto-face learning than in distance learning.

CHANGE & RESILIENCE IN DUBAI'S E CENTRES, SCHOOLS & TRAINING

ic is fograph in this in ne 1, 2021 a t a d e Ju Th e as of accurat

"A country's greatest investme nt is in building generations of educ ated and knowledgeable youth."

Father of the UAE Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan

Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Director General of KHDA, explained: “Parents have always had the choice of distance or face-to-face learning for their children. It’s great to see that parents have placed their confidence and trust in schools and that the government’s safety protocols continue to be rigorously implemented. It’s also great that students are able to spend time with their friends and teachers in person every day.” The report incorporates new data on early childhood education in Dubai that is expected to help enhance the growth and quality of the sector in the months and years to come. These up-to-the-minute figures include the number of Early Childhood Centres (ECCs) in Dubai, their teachers, and the students who attend them.

EAR LY CHI LDH OOD CE (EC Cs)

169

More than 10,000 children were attending 169 private ECCs in Dubai, also known as nurseries or early learning centres, as of June 2021. Eight additional early childhood centres are expected to open by the end of 2021. Dr Abdulla Al Karam said: “The first five years of our lives form the foundation for the kind of adults we will become. High-quality early childhood education and care are crucial to creating a happy and healthy population, as well as a dynamic and future-focused Dubai. By gathering and sharing data on this sector, we hope to give it greater visibility and encourage even more growth. We’re grateful to all the centres we’ve worked with so far, and we look forward to deepening our relationship with them for the benefit of our youngest children and their families in Dubai.”

ECcs

in Dubai

AGE OF CHILDREN IN ECCs 1%

5+ yea rs old

4 yea rs old

TYPES OF

Less tha n 12 mon ths

13%

12-2 4 mon ths

TOP 3 LEARN APPROACHES A

9 1% 7%

Ea rly Y e Sta g e (

M on te ss or

DUCATION SUMMER EDITION

EARLY CHILDHOOD G INSTITUTES

This land is the thir scap do e aca reports f three dem ic y for thi s ear.

ENT RES 'EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRES (ALSO REFERRED TO AS NURSERIES) ARE NOT ATTACHED TO SCHOOLS'

1 0 , 2 3 4 CHILDREN CURrENTLY ATtEND ECcs

 DR. ABDULLA AL KARAM, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of KHDA

FURTHER DATA RELEASED IN THE REPORT INCLUDE: 92% OF TEACHERS

at early childhood centres have teaching qualifications

10 NEW SCHOOLS

will open in the 2021/22 academic year

LEARNING OFFERED

NING AT ECCS

ea rs Fo un dati on (U K )

61% OF COURSES

offered by training institutes in Dubai focus on professional and management training

To read the full data infographic, please visit: www.khda.gov.ae/en/publications

Did You Know?

KHDA

KHDA’S NEW GUIDE FOR PARENTS PROMOTES INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN DUBAI Parents of private school students in Dubai can now access a new guide dedicated to informing and empowering them in their journey of inclusive education. The new publication released by Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) provides information about parents’ rights and responsibilities and empowers them to be effective advocates for their children. Fatma Belrehif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau at KHDA, said: “Our schools have embraced inclusive education, and we have ensured that parents are fully informed and able to make the right choices. The new guide is an important step in realising Dubai’s aspirations to become one of the most inclusive cities in the world.” The guide provides comprehensive parent support checklists that are important points of reference for parents as they work together with schools to achieve inclusive education. “Parents are the experts on their children. They hold unique knowledge and must be empowered to work in partnership

with schools to develop and implement effective systems of support for their children. Enabling parents to have access to information that empowers them to choose the right school for their children and promoting access to inclusive education will bring significant benefit to all students in Dubai private schools,” added Belrehif. The guide is the latest in a series of inclusive education publications released by KHDA as part of Dubai’s education strategy. The first publication, Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework, launched in 2017, was a key accelerator of the ‘My community… a city for everyone’ initiative.

TO READ THE FULL GUIDE VISIT: www.khda.gov.ae

SIX STEPS TOWARDS INCLUSIVE EDUCATION STEP 1: SELECTING AN INCLUSIVE SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD STEP 2: YOUR CHILD’S PARTICIPATION IN AN ENTRY ASSESSMENT OF NEED STEP 3: IDENTIFYING BARRIERS THAT RESTRICT YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING STEP 4: IMPLEMENTING SUPPORT TO LOWER BARRIERS TO LEARNING STEP 5: DEVELOPING AN INDIVIDUAL EDUCATION PLAN (IEP) FOR YOUR CHILD AND ESTABLISHING AN INDIVDUALISED SERVICE AGREEMENT STEP 6: COMMUNICATING ABOUT AND CONTRIBUTING TO YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION

ADEK

ADEK CHARTER SCHOOL TO PILOT AI ‘SMART SCHOOL’ TECHNOLOGY Abu Dhabi Department of Education & Knowledge (ADEK) has announced plans to implement advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and ‘smart school’ technology multi-systems across its 15-strong network of Charter Schools in the Emirate in partnership with SenseTime.

THE PILOT AT JABEL HAFEET SCHOOL IN AL AIN INTRODUCES CUSTOMISED AI SOLUTIONS THAT WILL BE ROLLED OUT ACROSS ADEK’S CHARTER SCHOOLS’ COMMUNITY

The multi-faceted smart school tech will utilise cutting-edge motion sensors, facial recognition technology, crowd management monitoring and augmented reality features to secure safer and healthier school environments. With the game-changing suite of AI-powered solutions capable of signalling early alerts of disruptive behaviour or bullying, as well as tracking compliance to health standards, including Covid-19 prevention measures, the technology will be piloted at Al Ain’s Jabel Hafeet School for the start of the new academic year in September. Subject to the pilot project’s success, the technology is planned to be deployed gradually across Charter Schools starting from the middle of the 2021/22 academic year. “With the Charter Schools mandate focused on student centricity, our goal is to constantly enhance and positively impact school environments and operations. Schools are inherently complex environments due to multiple sub-environments co-existing in one setting. We also cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to the wellbeing, health and safety of our students; so the integration and implementation of AI-driven smart technology is an obvious choice due to its cost-effectiveness and availability,” explained Her Excellency Khuloud Al Dhaheri, ADEK’s Executive Director Education Partnerships Sector.

The tailored technology multi-system will be delivered by a sophisticated network of advanced IP motion sensors. These will be integrated across Jabel Hafeet Charter School’s existing CCTV infrastructure to ensure ongoing community adherence to ADEK’s holistic Charter School Reopening Compliance Programme, which governs reopening policy across the Emirate’s Charter Schools. In addition to negating unlawful entry to schools, the technology will manage the attendance of registered students, teachers and staff when they enter and leave the school. By utilising advanced facial recognition technology, it will also aid ongoing adherence to social distancing protocols

by monitoring the number of people in restricted areas such as labs, the dining hall, corridors, children’s waiting areas and the auditorium. With the system also enabling contactless access control to maintain a safe and hygienic environment across the school, additional features cater for people tracking, companion analysis, crowd management and heat-map technology to identify areas and people in contact with a potential Covid-19 case, heightening the speed and efficiency of the school’s response.

THE TAILORED TECHNOLOGY MULTISYSTEM WILL BE DELIVERED BY A SOPHISTICATED NETWORK OF ADVANCED IP MOTION SENSORS Through additional features modelled for ADEK, the technology can identify student behaviour to enhance bullying prevention efforts, gauge student sentiment to ensure educators can customise initiatives and plans to optimise well-being in schools. It will also support online education through interactive and immersive student experiences. “The potential applications we could develop as we progress this technology are extensive. We will actively monitor the pilot project, its phased implementation and anticipated outcomes as we continue to look to deliver standards of excellence in the provision of ever safer and healthier learning environments for all”, explained Al Dhaheri. Jabel Hafeet School is among 15 ADEK Charter Schools across Abu Dhabi. A successful third education model that is regionally unique to the Emirate, Charter Schools are the outcome of strategic public and private sector partnerships. These provide an American-based curriculum to stimulate exceptional learning experiences for school students in kindergarten to cycle one, with more grades set to be introduced as students progress their educational journeys.

Did You Know?

ADEK

ABU DHABI SCHOOL STUDENTS TO RETURN TO CAMPUS IN UPCOMING ACADEMIC YEAR The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee has approved the physical return of students to schools for the upcoming 2021-2022 academic year. Nevertheless, full-time remote learning will be available to parents who request it - if their child’s school offers the option. “While we believe that remote learning is not a perfect substitute for physical learning, we must ensure that everyone is comfortable to return to in-school instruction as much as possible,” explained Sara Musallam, chairwoman of Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). A statement said that the decision to permit all schools to return to their campus was reached following consultation with parents, teachers, principals, and school operators across the emirate, conducted in May and June of this year.

THE DECISION TO PERMIT ALL SCHOOL TO RETURN TO THEIR CAMPUS WAS REACHED FOLLOWING CONSULTATION WITH PARENTS, TEACHERS, PRINCIPALS AND SCHOOL OPERATORS

KHDA

DUBAI STUDENTS REPORT IMPROVED WELL-BEING Students in Dubai are getting more sleep, having breakfast more regularly, and enjoying closer relationships with their teachers, the results of the fourth Dubai Student Well-being Census have revealed. Nearly 60% of students in grades six to nine and 41.5% of students in Grades 10 to 12 said they got a good night’s sleep at least five times a week, compared with 54.2% and 37.1% respectively the previous year. Three out of four students also reported waking up later in the day. Similarly, nearly 78% of students in grades six to nine and 69% of students in Grades 10 to 12 said they ate breakfast five times a week, up from 69.7% and 61.5% respectively from the year before. Abdulla Al Karam, Director-General of Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), said: “The past year has shown us the importance of well-being in education. After weeks and months of distance and blended learning, we’ve seen how resilient our children are. The results of this fourth census show that our children are getting better sleep and building better relationships with their friends and their teachers. They’re feeling more confident in their schoolwork, and they are optimistic about their future.”

Nearly 78% of students in grades six to nine and 69% of students in Grades 10 to 12 said they ate breakfast five times a week

ADEK

ABU DHABI UPDATES OPERATING PROTOCOLS FOR CHILDREN’S NURSERIES The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee has approved updated operating guidelines for children’s nurseries, effective from 1 July 2021.

Updated procedures call for continuing to operate with a reduced capacity and caring for children in small groups or ‘bubbles’. Nonetheless, bubbles now can include additional children: those aged between 45 days to two years can now be in a bubble of up 12 children, up from a previous figure of eight, while for the age group of 2-4 years, a bubble can include 16 children, up from 10.

The operating procedures will also continue to include conducting regular inspections to ensure health procedures are implemented. This includes providing all staff with mandatory virtual training on implementing Covid-19 protocols, appointing a health and safety officer, and hiring a nurse in every nursery who will check the temperature of children and staff daily.

Did You Know?

SPEA PARTICIPATES IN SCRF 2021 WITH CREATIVE PLATFORM

SPEA

The Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) participated in the 13th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, under the theme ‘For Your Imagination’, through a special platform that provided children with a package of activities and events aimed at stimulating their imagination and enhancing their abilities. Through the platform, SPEA presented the ‘Drawing Challenge’, which allowed children to imagine and draw a cover for the story ‘My School is Most Beautiful’, as well as the recital activity in the ‘Narrator’ workshops, during which interesting stories were read to children in an interactive way

that provoked their imagination. The platform offered interactive games suitable for different age groups, too, which also allowed visitors to take memorial photos with a number of the UAE’s leaders or comic characters via the virtual photography screen.

MOE

UAE UNIVERSITIES PLAY A PIVOTAL ROLE IN ACHIEVING THE 2030 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Minister Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi has stated that the vital role of higher education institutions is not limited to achieving quality and comprehensive education only, but that it rather extends its impact by achieving the various goals, through teaching, learning, research outputs, campus initiatives and higher education institutions, to facilitate social, environmental and economic development. He noted that higher education institutions have become one of the most important incubators of ideas and solutions to global problems, mainly with their central location between government networks, civil society and industry partners, which means that they have enormous potential to generate a positive impact.

A package of activities and events aimed at stimulating their imagination and enhancing their abilities

NEW COLLABORATIVE EFFORT TO PREPARE EMIRATI YOUTH FOR HIGHER EDUCATION STUDIES IN THE UNITED STATES

MOE

The Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education (AGFE) has announced a new multi-stakeholder collaboration, the US University Readiness Programme, together with the UAE Ministry of Education, AMIDEAST and the US Embassy Abu Dhabi. The university-geared upskilling programme will develop the skills of 105 Emirati 11th-grade high school students and 33 counsellors from nearly 47 schools across the UAE to navigate the admissions process of higher education institutions in the US. The 15-month-long programme seeks to improve acceptance and enrollment opportunities for Emirati students applying to colleges and universities across the US. As part of the collaboration, the students will participate in an interactive, engaging after-school enrichment programme. It will focus on fostering their English-language competencies and developing the communication, problem-solving and critical thinking skills needed to achieve the required scores on standardised exams required for US university admission. The participating students will also be guided through the many other aspects involved in the US university admissions system. This includes developing their knowledge of US educational

opportunities, supporting them to navigate the application process, and equipping them with the necessary skills for test preparation. In addition to assistance with university application submissions, financial aid application support will also be provided as needed. Dr Sonia Ben Jaafar, Chief Executive Officer of AGFE, said: “This is another milestone in our university readiness programme, and we are proud of this multistakeholder partnership with the UAE Ministry of Education, US Embassy Abu Dhabi, and AMIDEAST.

The partnership reflects AGFE’s continued commitment to providing youth in the UAE and the wider Middle East region access to quality higher education opportunities. With the introduction of this ground-breaking collaboration, our objective is to create real and meaningful impact in the lives of Emirati and Arab youth in the region for many years to come.” In addition to supporting and guiding students interested in studying in the US, the programme provides public secondary school counsellors with the opportunity to familiarise themselves with US university admission procedures and develop new skills and techniques.

ADEK Registration for WRO UAE National Robot Olympiad runs until 27 August

ADEK OPENS REGISTRATION FOR NATIONAL ROBOT OLYMPIAD QUALIFIER The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) national organiser, has opened registration for the UAE national qualifying stage of the global contest, which promotes robotics in STEM education worldwide. Registration for the national qualifiers runs until 27 August with teams of up to three students and a coach, aged between 8-19 years, from public, private and charter schools, as well as universities across the UAE eligible for three categories – Regular, Open and Future engineers. Each category has specific age restrictions; Elementary for 8-12 years old; Junior for 12-15 years old, and

Senior for 15-19 years old. The qualifiers will be held virtually in September, with seven teams due to be selected to represent the Emirates in November’s online international finals. Successful competitors will develop innovative robotic solutions utilising renewable sources to address power challenges and further the use of clean and renewable energy.

SEVEN TEAMS TO REPRESENT THE UAE IN NOVEMBER’S WRO 2021 INTERNATIONAL FINALS

TEAMS AND INDIVIDUALS CAN REGISTER THROUGH THE ADEK WEBSITE: HTTPS://WWW.ADEK.GOV.AE/PROGRAMMES-AND-INITIATIVES

KHDA

10 NEW SCHOOLS SET TO OPEN IN DUBAI IN 2021-22 ACADEMIC YEAR Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has announced that ten new schools will open in Dubai in the 2021-22 academic year. New data released by KHDA states that an additional 14,671 new seats will be added to Dubai’s education landscape with the opening of the new schools. This year’s new schools are located in Tilal Al Ghaf, Al Warqa, Al Karama, Al Barsha, City Walk, Mirdif, Nad Al Sheba, Al Khawaneej and Rashidiya. Building on strong demand from parents for innovative education offerings, the new schools offer a choice of Australian, UK, US and IB curricula.

New data released by KHDA states that an additional 14,671 new seats will be added to Dubai’s education landscape

Did You Know?

EDUCATION PERFECT: A STRIKING NEW APPROACH TO SUPPORTING SCHOOLS ACROSS THE UAE? Founded in New Zealand and developed by and with teachers over a 10-year period, Education Perfect (EP) is a complete digital teaching and learning toolkit for schools, helping teachers redefine teaching and learning experiences in line with the requirements of the 21st- century. The EP platform offers a world-class set of learning, revision, and assessment tools, enabling 21st-century practices for years 5 to 12 across all subject areas.

Data is at the heart of EP. Its rich user data report and insight capabilities enable the use of machine learning and AI, while also providing insights to teachers, parents, principals, administrators and students. The EP difference is that teachers can streamline multifaceted aspects of their work through the platform in order to free up time to focus on personalised learning pathways, well-being and relationship building with their students. Personalisation, inclusivity of every learner, actionable data and insights, and interoperability are the defining requirements of the digital teaching and learning platforms of the future. EP meets all of these requirements, sitting well ahead of its largely subject-specific competitors. EPConnect - The Event EPConnect’s first in-person gathering in over 15 months was a wonderful meeting of minds and a welcomed opportunity for re-connection. In collaboration with Education UAE, and Evo Hannan from EDTalks Live as the keynote speaker, EPConnect was an opportunity to reflect on the highs and lows of the past year and discuss effective blended learning practices before the new academic year begins.

With repeated school closures and ongoing disruptions, 2020 and 2021 have been described as the most challenging years in education. However, it was also a time that highlighted the extraordinary strength and resilience UAE teachers and students can have in the face of adversity. Throughout 2020/2021, the majority of UAE students did not undertake normal schooling. Yet, the conversation that took place on Wednesday, 26 June, between teachers and school leaders reminded everyone of both the fantastic successes achieved and the perseverance that the whole community has demonstrated. During the evening, the discussion revolved around how technology can enhance learning, incorporating the importance of using technology to consolidate, refocus, and allow greater flexibility in the delivery. Beyond technology, the conversation also explored how to prioritise building relationships and provide vital emotional support if blended learning was to continue into the New Year.

What was your biggest success and challenge from the past year?

Explain a change that was implemented in your school that you will keep moving forward?

Do you feel blended learning hinders any students

What functionalities exist within platforms like EP that can resolve the issues discussed today?

(academically, socially, emotionally)

and how we can address this?

USED BY:

Meeting the Demands of a Challenging Sector As in all sectors, the challenge of the future demands an urgent rethink. As far as education is concerned, that rethink involves a revamp of what is taught, how it is taught, and the framework in which learning takes place. With this in mind, a number of schools attending the EP Connect event commented on technology, blended learned and online tools like EP. “The biggest challenge was teaching the students alongside the parents and getting the parents on board and involved. After this, however, blended learning has been really successful, especially for our Primary school students.” (Wellington International School)

“From now on, for many people, the fear of adapting to a digital platform and using technology is gone. People can adapt quickly and are now more open to embracing the different digital technologies schools throw at them.” (Rashid School for Boys)

“Pre-Covid, we never had the time to explore the technology, but the pandemic has given us the time and push to use it in our lessons. And it has massively reduced my marking and allows me to give feedback straight away, which is a huge benefit for the students.” (Australian International School)

“We do not just have technology for the sake of having it; technology needs to enhance learning and allow us to use adaptive tools that cater for the individual.” (Next Generation School)

“I love online tools like EP for languages, as students can work at their own pace and it allows them to record their answers for speaking, which right now is really hard to practice because they all have their masks on, or they are not able to get close enough to speak with each other.” (English College Dubai)

Uniquely Positioned With offices in Australia, NZ, Singapore, and Dubai, and already used by one million+ students, 50,000+ teachers, in 3,000+ schools across 50+ countries, EP is uniquely positioned to be the total digital teaching and learning toolkit for schools globally.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW WE HELP SCHOOLS, TEACHERS, STUDENTS AND PARENTS, AND/OR TO TRIAL OUR PLATFORM FREE, PLEASE VISIT educationperfect.com

One million+

students

50,000+

teachers

In 3,000+

schools

across 50+ countries

Technology needs to enhance learning and allow us to use adaptive tools that cater for the individual

Did You Know?

Outstanding Schools Middle East Conference TEACHER RETENTION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT The Teacher Retention and Professional Development Conference, 2021, was organised to address growing concerns around international teacher recruitment, retention and professional development. The conference attracted exceptional presenters and discussion facilitators, as well as highlevel educational leadership participants. The conference committee built in extensive opportunities for interaction and networking throughout and after the conference. The conference was a huge success.

The conference introduced many thoughts and ideas that gained consensus throughout the day. And, through much formal and informal discussion, some of those thoughts even became accepted as new realities. The coronavirus pandemic has made it more time consuming and more expensive to attract new teachers into international education. International travel has introduced increased complexities. Relocation now brings new questions and fears with regard to relocating, working and living in a new culture. It has also become more difficult to retain the quality teachers that we have. To address these new challenges, it is imperative that we increase our investment in teacher welfare, teacher engagement and professional development. Each teacher brings an amazing wealth of talents and experience to the classroom. It is important that school leaders understand the passions of their teachers and then empower them to bring that passion, creativity and experimentation to their students. Understanding comes through listening and listening and listening. We need to listen to understand, not to respond. Teachers need to be heard and need to feel that their leaders will support them when their creativity and experimentation may not go as planned. There was a strong consensus that staff well-being and staff retention are strongly linked. If school

leaders want to retain their quality teachers, they must invest wisely in the well-being of teachers in their professional, personal and everyday lives. Leadership teams must be honest and authentic in that support. School leaders need to listen and understand the hopes, dreams and fears of their teachers. It was also agreed that teachers also need to take responsibility for their own wellbeing; teachers need to be taught that well-being journeys require moldability and malleability and need frequent adaptations. Well-being does not just happen; well-being requires skills that need to be learned and developed. Well-being and resilience are two sides of the same coin. The conference recognised the tremendous workload of teachers this past year. Teachers need a generous amount of non-teaching time to be at their best when in front of students. It is the role of the school leaders to listen and watch and understand how far each teacher is stretched and then support the teacher so that some of that stretch is relaxed. Professional development activities need to ensure teacher engagement and need to support teacher autonomy. Engagement and autonomy will encourage motivation that will bring experimentation and change to teaching methods and student learning results. It was agreed that we need to learn more about encouraging teachers

Teacher engagement is key to teacher attraction and retention

How can we better engage teachers throughout our professional activities? How can we meet the changing needs around teacher well-being? How can we promote autonomous, yet directed, professional development? How can we ensure that teachers have a transformational experience while enriching our learning community? Do we need a new way of thinking to assist us with attracting and recruiting quality teachers?

Professional development must be aligned and integrated with the needs of the teacher, the school and the learning community

WHAT’S NEXT? to champion their own professional development. Professional development must be aligned and integrated with the needs of the teacher, the school and the learning community. It must focus on school improvement, staff growth and student learning. Professional development must focus on some change, some transformation, with an identified end in mind. It is critical to identify teacher strengths and talents and then provide opportunities to grow those strengths and talents.

these opportunities for change. Keep the great things that we have been doing and integrate the good things we have learned these past eighteen months.

Teacher engagement is key to teacher attraction and retention. The engagement of new teachers should begin shortly after their contract is signed and needs to continue actively and purposefully until that first day of school. Teachers need to be engaged in the formation and implementation of the school plan. Induction and engagement need to continue throughout the school year.

The conference provided rich opportunities for sharing and discussing ideas, networking, and future collaborative professional development. The conference also ended with a set of questions encompassing “where do we go from here?”

Although educators have been tied traditionally to the concept of a two-year teaching contract, school leaders need to think about recruiting to support the needs of the school long-term plan, thinking in terms of recruiting right and then retaining those right choices for four or five years. The school cannot afford to be turning over a large percentage of its staff every year. The world has changed and will continue to change. The pandemic is not going away anytime soon, and it is our role to move forward with better practices through

If wise teacher recruitment is paramount to the success of a learning community, retention of the right teachers must be next in importance, and engagement of teachers is integral to teacher retention and staff well-being.

The Outstanding Schools Middle East team is working hard to bring more events and conferences to the education community. The Outstanding Schools Middle East flagship event has now been announced and will be taking place from 12 to 14 October 2021. The OSME 2021 event is a three-day conference with over 80 speakers set to share their opinions, best practice and expert advice on four different conference streams: Teaching and Learning, Wellbeing and Inclusion, Leadership and Management and Workforce and CPD. You can find out more about the upcoming event here and register early to secure your place.

18 The New Normal

ACADEMIA IS NO LONGER ENOUGH

By Her Royal Highness, Princess Noor Bint Asem of Jordan

Chairwoman and Founder of Kyan Foundation, Her Royal Highness, Princess Noor Bint Asem of Jordan, discusses the opportunity Covid-19 has presented for educators and parents across the UAE to evaluate the way we educate future generations. With children going back to physical classrooms, she argues in favour of the implementation of social and emotional learning (SEL) to become an intrinsic part of the education system across the UAE.

As we move forward into an unpredictable world, at Kyan, we believe the implementation of well-being through social-emotional learning is a necessity in the classroom. With 1.5 billion students out of school and hundreds of millions learning solely online, the pandemic has reshaped schools as we know them. The idea of education and what learning looks like should evolve to meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s minds. The current education paradigm lacks the life skills necessary to equip children with the ability to embrace who they are and develop their innate skills. Nonetheless, these are skills that can be taught. Growing up and discovering that our education moulded a great part of our personalities, determining how we related to ourselves and the world, my sisters and I wanted to create something that allowed for introspection, self-improvement and self-discovery that can be practised both at home and at school. I wish I was taught how to self-reflect, understand and accept my unique self from a younger age. Kyan’s intention is to re-design our life journey focusing on comprehensive development, starting at home and extending to schools. Kyan programmes are facilitated by our own professional, qualified practitioners certified in Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, NeuroEducation and Emotional Intelligence, fields in which I have been active since 2011. Martin Seligman encapsulates the principals of the change for which we are advocating when he said: “The premise of positive psychology is that well-being can be defined, measured and taught. Well-being includes positive emotions, intense engagement, good relationships, meaning and

accomplishment (PERMA). Questionnaires can measure it. Trainers can teach it. Achieving it not only makes people more fulfilled but makes corporations more productive, soldiers more resilient, students more engaged, and marriages happier.” At Kyan, our Essence-Led Education is focused on introducing comprehensive development to schools where life skills and well-being are an integral part of the curriculum. As an advocate of change in existing education curriculums, I believe now is the time to implement Social and Emotional Learning as a core part of all curriculums in the region. Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. SEL is a key part of all education and human development. Through this learning process, students can acquire and apply the knowledge, skills and attitudes in order to create and maintain a healthy identity, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals. Including this element of SEL in our education system should be the direct result of co-creation between educators, parents and the community. This will lead to establishing learning environments and experiences which will demonstrate trusting, collaborative relationships, rigorous, meaningful curriculum instruction, and ongoing evaluation. More than two decades of research has demonstrated education promoting SEL gets results. Findings come from multiple fields and sources, including improved academic performance with an

eleven-percentile point gain on academics, decreases in anxiety with improved attitudes about self, others and school, overall health, increased employment rates and the prevention of youth problem behaviours. There is already global support for the implementation of SEL within curriculums. A survey of 762 educators from 15 countries by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) found 80% of educators believe positive emotions are critical for academic success, and emotional well-being is crucial for developing foundational literacies and communication skills. According to the 2018 Social and Emotional Learning Report from McGraw-Hill Education Morning Consult, as many as 81% of parents believe SEL is just as important as academic learning. Six of the top ten skills identified by the World Economic Forum (WEF) involve social and emotional competence. In another survey by, the WEF, 92% of executives believe skills such as problemsolving and communication are equal to, or more important than, technical skills. Global giants such as Google are prioritising SEL because the whole world is moving toward mental well-being, and it should be a mandatory part of our school system, not a privilege. We can no longer exclude work on personal development from schools. Transformative change is fundamental for individuals and education systems to grow and evolve in meaningful ways. A key component of this is the ability to reflect on existing curriculum models and modifying anything which does not support the individual or the facility’s growth. While this process is not easy, with the right level of motivation and tools, it is possible. As many of us begin a new chapter in going back to classrooms, now is the time to reflect and bring a new dimension to learning, taking this global phenomenon as a platform for change. When the storm of the pandemic passes, schools should be revolutionised by this experience, or they may revert back to what they know. But the world in which they will exist will demand more. Education may be slow to change, but the post-coronavirus society will demand it.

80%

OF EDUCATORS believe positive emotions are critical for academic success

92%

OF EXECUTIVES believe skills such as problem-solving and communication are equal to, or more important than, technical skills

20 The New Normal

THE POWER OF REFLECTIVE PRACTICE IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP “I DON’T HAVE TIME TO THINK!” How often do we hear these words from our educational leaders? Principals and SLT are constantly under pressure to meet the ever-changing regulations of Covid demands, the relentless streams of data that flow from every corner of the school and the ferocious flow of student concerns.

Recently a YouGov survey, as part of the Teacher Well-being Index, found that over half of teachers in the UK say their mental health has declined significantly during the Covid pandemic revealing a profession feeling unsupported and unappreciated (EducationSupport.org.uk, 2021). USA Today (Jan, 2021) reported widespread concerns headlining that “teacher’s mental health suffers in ways they’ve never experienced”. The Bastion, in 2020, reported the hidden threat to teachers across India, with mental health declining during the pandemic – there is little time to take a breath, pause and reflect but it is something that we need to do, it is essential.

SO, WHAT IS REFLECTIVE PRACTICE? Reflective practice is ‘learning through and from experience towards gaining new insights of self and practice’ (Finlay, 2008) It is the act of periodically stepping back to ponder the meaning of what has recently transpired in our schools, our teams and our environment. It privileges the process of inquiry leading to an understanding of actions and experiences that may have been overlooked in the process of change. Reflection is a basic part of teaching and learning and of whole school development. It aims to make you more aware of your own professional knowledge

and action by ‘challenging assumptions of everyday practice and critically evaluating practitioners’ own responses to practice situations’ (Finlay, 2008). Associated with learning dialogues, or communities of practice; it is the exchange of social political and emotional data. It is opening discussion with your team in a safe environment of trusting peers to address premises and assumptions behind our educational leadership and practice. These learning dialogues are concerned with creating mutual caring relationships to eliminate blocks to operational effectiveness. How can schools foster reflective practice? Just as a teacher uses reflective practice in class to self-appraise, we can expand this to a whole school macro level where staff are engaging in professional learning dialogues.

There are strategies that a school can endorse to encourage the use of reflective practice. According to Joseph Raelin, author of Work Based Learning, there are five key elements which support reflective practice. Reflective actions; lead by even one person can stimulate reflective action in others. Journaling, learning histories or learning forums are a good way to start. Building communities; encourage teachers and leaders to network around common topics or areas of interest. Encourage sharing and testing of ideas, facilitate this through setting up meeting spaces and allowing time, in the day, for teachers to come together. Process improvement; reinforce the value of learning from experience, highlight the value of quality improvement approaches. Learning teams; create supportive task teams to work on meaningful action learning projects. For example, ask a group of teachers to pilot a

trial such as flexible seating, facilitating them to work together in testing and trialing and reflecting on their challenges and success. Culture of learning; senior managers have a particularly important role in modeling learning dialogues, where everyone feels confident to challenge ideas, discuss pitfalls and requirements. How can we, as leaders model this culture of learning and reflective practice? Through open enquiry and free discussion, testing and uncovering possibilities in school practice. Speaking with teachers and staff to stimulate discussion, find and characterise a collective voice of discourse. Sharing our own doubts about our practice and allowing for vulnerability as a leader. Voicing passion and demonstrating our own excitement. Probe and enquire with all staff, ask about their assumptions, reasons and consequences Be present, listen actively, be inquisitive and be vulnerable. Being vulnerable, as an educational leader, builds group cohesion and affiliation.

“Reflective practice enables the practitioner to ‘remove’ themselves from the immediacy of being directly involved in the decision or action and to put their actions into a ‘context’ that provides a fuller appreciation of all the circumstances that led to that decision or action.”

SELF ASSESS

TEACH

REFLECTIVE CYCLE

PRACTICE

CONSIDER

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF WEBSITES THAT CAN GUIDE YOU ON REFLECTIVE PRACTICE FROM A MICRO TEACHING LEVEL TO A MACRO WHOLE SCHOOL LEVEL.

VIEW ONLINE

By engaging reflective practice in a school we can support teachers and leaders in growing and improving their own practice in a meaningful and structured way. “Reflective practice enables the practitioner to ‘remove’ themselves from the immediacy of being directly involved in the decision or action and to put their actions into a ‘context’ that provides a fuller appreciation of all the circumstances that led to that decision or action.”(Baker, Cathcart, & Peach, 2017). As an educational leader, facilitating structured time, where teachers and school leaders can take a breath, self-appraise and reflect, we can promote calm and well-being. Approach challenges in a collective manner and accept pitfalls and failures as learning opportunities. Reflective practice is a powerful tool and one that can be implemented relatively easily – if we just take the time -take a breath, step back and be in the moment of learning.

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VIEW ONLINE

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VIEW ONLINE

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Catherine is the Head of Student Services for Bloom Education in the UAE, she also hosts a fortnightly Inclusion & Well-being Forum for practitioners, sharing practice and knowledge from Singapore to Ireland. She is a teacher, psychologist and engineer and is passionate about combining practice from all three areas to develop effective leadership strategies in educational organisations. She is a regular conference speaker and media contributor and always keen to share freely and connect like-minded practitioners.

The New Normal

TEACHER WELLBEING AND ITS IMPACT ON STUDENT LEARNING 2020/21 has been a real rollercoaster of emotions. Whether you have been working in education for years or are new to the profession, no one could have predicted just how challenging teaching could be in a global pandemic. Therefore, it is vital to ensure the mental and physical health of the people at the coal face – teachers. Good teacher well-being is essential for cultivating a mentally healthy school, retaining and motivating staff, and promoting student well-being and attainment.

We spoke to Jessica Werner, founder of Northshore Coaching and Consulting and one of the speakers at the recent Outstanding Schools Middle East conference. We asked her how best to combat stress and provide teachers with the tools to progress in their careers and, in doing so, ensure that students receive the finest educational opportunities available. EDUAE: As a former teacher, you must be able to relate to the pressure teachers are currently under and how this affects the performance of students? Jessica: Yes, there is a massive link between teacher well-being and the performance of students. Up until 15 months ago, people weren’t taking too much notice. Some schools were kind of interested back then, but when Covid hit, it moved to the front of the agenda. EDUAE: A lot of teachers are exhausted, and some are even leaving the profession? Jessica: The current situation is pushing everyone to their limits, but it’s good that so many schools in the Middle East are interested in teachers’ wellness and want to support it. Teaching is getting more and more demanding every year. The needs of the students keep evolving, and then there are all of the things that come from ‘above’, such as policy changes and dealing with parents. It’s not getting any easier. That’s why I started Northshore Coaching and Consulting – I wanted to provide something for teachers that I never had, and that might have kept me in the profession longer.

EDUAE: So, what do you offer to support teachers? Jessica: We have several courses and approaches, many of them online at present. ‘Thriving Teachers’, for instance, revolves around coping with challenges, uncertainty, and trauma – helping teachers to thrive in a stressful profession. For example, all of the courses we provide utilise research-based, results-driven data that gives education professionals the techniques to meet students where they are and lead them to where they need to be. It gives them the tools to capture students’ attention, promote deeper learning, and engage their emotions. EDUAE: How do the schools and teachers measure the results of your work? Jessica: The school will experience three principal outcomes: (1) increased confidence and effectiveness in teachers, (2) up to 70% fewer behavioural issues in and out of the classroom, and (3) increased student engagement and achievement.

EDUAE: Northshore Coaching and Consulting adds considerable value to any relationship, too? Jessica: It’s all about helping the teacher. All of my team, for instance, are fully qualified and experienced life coaches. This is something that the corporate model has already adopted, with executive coaching now taking place in many of the world’s major corporations. So, this is really progressive for schools to be doing this, and we have all of the skills to ensure it is done to the very highest levels. Also, I have an extensive background in intercultural training, which serves me well in this role. I’ve worked in different countries and cultures. Still, even on a micro-level, in the United States, there is a vast difference from region to region: for instance, between Minnesota and New York. But one thing remains the same whatever the location: teacher well-being has a significant impact on schools, teachers and students.

EDUAE: And individual teachers really value your work? Jessica: Definitely. There is a school I work with where, when Covid hit last year, the budget dried up overnight, and the Principal said, “Sorry, we can’t continue with coaching for the rest of the year.” Then, a month later, he called back to say that his teachers were furious and asking when Jessica and her team were returning! So, yes, it makes a difference.

To find out more, visit northshorecc.org Alternatively, contact Jessica direct at jessica@northshorecc.org

“THIS is the

BEGINNING of a

Beautiful LIFE”

ELEVATED URBAN LIVING The developer of the award-winning Serenia Residences The Palm and Silverene Towers Dubai Marina, Palma Holding introduces its latest property development - Olivara Residences & Park, which was built in collaboration with the celebrated architect Hazel Wong whose timeless architecture is distinctive and functional. Known for its bespoke residential developments, Palma’s mission is to create vibrant communities centered around enhancing people’s lifestyles. One of them is Olivara, a vibrant residential community made up of four low-rise buildings and a club house that surround a 100,000sq ft park filled with green, open spaces, tree-lined walkways, seating corners, kids play areas, a sun deck, a half Olympic-size swimming pool, and free access to Palma bicycles. Olivara Residences also offers a state-of-the-art gymnasium, a top-performing fitness center, yoga studio and paleo café.

AMENITIES

100,000 sqft Bespoke Park

25m Swimming Pool & sun deck

State-of-the-art Gymnasium

Kids Play Area

LOCATION Ideally located in Dubai Studio City, Olivara is just a short distance away from popular residential hubs with everything you need from entertainment to retail, cafés, restaurants, clinics, hospitals, supermarkets, just a few minutes by car. Olivara also enjoys direct access on to Hessa St. and easy connenctions to Umm Suqueim Street, ByPass Road, E311 and Expo Road.

3 Minutes away from Sports & Motor City 4 Minutes away from Arabian Ranches & Ranches Polo Club 15 Minutes away from Mall of the Emirates 30 Minutes away from Dubai Airport

LIVING OPTIONS FOR RENT

WATCH VIDEO

Studio | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom + maid

Infused with a modern glass look, well-crafted finishes, large windows, modern fully-fitted kitchens and a beautiful setting, Olivara will offer a delightful urban home close to nature. Thoughtfully-designed interior spaces and terraces are a discernable feature at Olivara Residences, where meticulous attention to detail ensures a timeless, yet contemporary look. Each home features sophisticated finishes, customdesigned Italian kitchens, magnificent bathrooms and exquisite His & Hers walk-in closets in the master bedroom. The beautifully appointed kitchens feature fully fitted German appliances and a gourmet kitchen with a Quartz stone countertop. Large, glass windows in all rooms allow abundant sunlight and extend the park views into the living space.

Laura Matthews T: +971 452 2202 M: +971 50 9189494 E: laura.m@palmaholding.com

26 Excellence In Pre-School

WESTFIELD NURSERY OFFERS STATE-OF-THE-ART SPACE DESIGNED TO HELP CHILDREN THRIVE A new preeminent nursery in the heart of Dubai is opening its doors with a focus on providing a holistic learning-through-play environment that also takes serious precautions against Covid-19. Westfield Nursery, a new purpose-built Nursery located in an urban living development near City Walk, is a spacious 39,269+ square foot facility where children can enjoy safe and secure learning in one of Dubai’s best nurseries.

“The new Nursery is near many corporate offices, shops and local housing. The Nursery is owned and managed by Atticus Education LLC (AE), which develops, owns, and manages a diverse array of schools with different curricula to meet the region’s growing needs. Atticus Education has over 2000+ students registered throughout its schools, and this number continues to grow as we pursue our mission to become a prolific provider of accessible and affordable education throughout the Emirate of Dubai.” says Ayesha Al Mutaiwei, Managing Director, Atticus Education LLC. The sizable facility is part of Dubai’s premium purpose-built nurseries where the custom environments are designed to maximise children’ safety and well-being. Westfield Nursery, in particular, was designed by architects to provide a very large space and plenty of indoor and outdoor rooms to comply with Covid-19 regulations and give children a lot of learning opportunities. Westfield Nursery provides an open space concept across the centre’s different core developmental learning areas, including a library room, sensory room, large gym, soft playroom, playground, water play area and individual outdoor classrooms. “In addition to being a warm and welcoming space where children can safely explore and learn, Westfield’s design also allows optimum social distancing with large learning spaces,” says Nursery Manager Aurore Robinot.

The Nursery follows the British Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum and prides itself on being an inclusive, active learning environment that encourages children to make decisions and share ideas. The Nursery can accommodate up to 224 children, and children from 45 days old to five years old are eligible for admittance. “Our Nursery’s focus is to encourage International education and the art of learning through play,” added Robinot. “The environment is perfectly catered to that mission. Everything from our curriculum to our expansive natural light and our bright and open play spaces makes Westfield a wonderful, safe haven where kids can develop a love of learning.” Westfield staff are committed to communicating with parents while their child is in the setting through constant virtual communication via phone, SeeSaw app, emails and Zoom App with the parents/guardians.

In conjunction with social distancing, the Nursery is observing Ministry of Education safety guidelines that include Covid-19 PCR tests for staff, using contactless thermal scanners to perform regular temperature screenings throughout the day, and staff face masks to be worn at all times. Westfield’s Covid-19 prevention plan also includes regular cleaning and sanitization of toys, play tables, play stations and all the equipment in the Nursery.

Westfield Nursery provides an open space concept across the centre’s different core developmental learning areas

Parents interested in registering their child at Westfield Nursery can get started by booking a tour of the facility at www.westfieldnursery.ae

BRIGHT LEARNERS PRIVATE SCHOOL ACCOMMODATES PARENTS THROUGH ITS FULL DAY PRE-KINDERGARTEN CURRICULUM Bright Learners Private School, one of the newest American schools in Dubai, is accommodating parents and children through its Pre-Kindergarten curriculum. With a full-day programme and licensed teaching professionals, Bright Learners Private School ensures a well-rounded and uninterrupted education for youngsters.

Since opening its doors to UAE residents, Bright Learners Private School has developed a strategy to not only help parents but their children who are starting their academic journey. Bright Learners is not the only school to offer Pre-Kindergarten in its curriculum; however, what makes the institution unique is its school timings and professionally qualified staff. Unlike most schools only offering Pre-K until noon, Bright Learners aligns the Pre-K schedule to fit regular school hours to create a smooth experience for parents working and taking care of their children’s transportation. Rather than working around a school’s multiple schedules, parents can expect to only work around the morning entry hour at 7:45 am and the end of the school day at 2:00 pm, simplifying drop-off and pick-up times for younger and older students. Additionally, the inclusion of Pre-K at Bright Learners allows for a seamless transition for toddlers entering their first academic years. Pre-Kindergarten at Bright Learners gives young children the chance to be in a relevant, engaging, rewarding, and positive professional learning environment. Pre-K allows children to begin their foundational learning years surrounded by licensed teachers and smoothly transition into the rest of their primary educational years. Bright Learners Private School welcomes the enrolment of children starting from the age of three to join its full-day Pre-Kindergarten programme, as well as its recently added Grade 5 for 2021/2022. Assisting families amidst the current financial climate, Bright Learners Private School has a fee structure and payment plan available for parents seeking financial relief without compromising on quality education. Bright Learners is one of the most modestlypriced private American schools in Dubai, with

all-inclusive fees ranging from AED 21,000 for Pre-K to AED 26,000 for Grade 5. Additionally, Bright Learners’ monthly payment plan is an ideal solution for parents who are new to the Emirate or simply searching for a new school to meet their needs. The school offers a monthly plan for all grade levels with fees ranging from AED 2,275 for Pre-K to AED 2,775 for Grade 4.

Bright Learners Private School’s mission is to nurture creative, inspired, collaborative, and innovative learners equipped with the tools, knowledge, and skills to impact themselves and their environment positively. Through a comprehensive education, parents can expect their children to receive learning experiences designed to promote their maximum potential.

To enrol new students at Bright Learners Private School for the current and following academic year, please visit their website at www.brightlearners.ae where parents can find more information about Bright Learners Private School and the admissions process.

28 Did You Know

In a Class by Itself EDUCATION UAE WAS PROUD TO BE A SPONSOR OF THE SCHOOL AND NURSERY SHOW 2021, WHICH HAD ITS FIRST EVENT BACK SINCE THE START OF THE PANDEMIC. THE SCHOOL AND NURSERY SHOW HAS BEEN RUNNING SINCE 2014 AND TO SAY THAT THERE WAS A HUGE AMOUNT OF EXCITEMENT ABOUT THE RETURN OF THIS EVENT WAS AN UNDERSTATEMENT. THE LIVE AND IN-PERSON EVENT WAS ABSOLUTELY BUZZING WITH PARENTS, EDUCATORS AND CHILDREN.

he event started with the opening by The Knowledge and Human Development Authority, who were the Knowledge Partners for the second year running. M. Hind Al Mualla, Chief of Happiness, Creativity and Innovation at KHDA, welcomed exhibitors and visitors to the event, recognising how crucial good relationships are in the UAE’s education sector. For the first time in 18 months, parents could speak directly to UAE schools and nurseries and gather valuable information to help them make the critical decision as to where to register their children. Choosing The Dubai World Trade Center as the venue for their 2021 show, with its excellent accessibility and signage, The School and Nursery Show went beyond the Covid-19 precautionary measures, delivering an event that felt safe and comfortable.

The School and Nursery Show reported record attendance numbers at the event. “We were absolutely delighted with the response to the event. Schools and nurseries confirmed their best ever number of interested parents, and their feedback suggested that the majority anticipate that over 20% of leads will convert into registrations.” Indeed, at 5.00 pm, there were still queues of people waiting to get into the event, and once inside, parents were really engaging with the schools and nurseries in attendance. Many parents were looking for advice in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and the uncertainty that still prevails, such as opportunities for home tutoring.

“We have always recognised the importance of face-to-face meetings when parents are choosing an educator, but this event has really highlighted this fact. The decision of where to register your children is very personal, and the personality and ethos of the school and its leaders is critical. It was fantastic to see educators connecting and engaging with parents, and it further proves the importance and need for physical events for certain business categories,” Catherine McEvoy, Managing Director of The School and Nursery Show The School and Nursery Show reported record attendance numbers at the event.

There were some new elements to the show in response to the pandemic, too, with live-streamed panel discussions that anyone could tune into and ask questions live. Catherine states: “We chose to do some elements of the show differently this year; it was a great opportunity for us to use our strength at reaching parents online and to help more parents than ever listen into important discussions between the countries leading educators. These discussions are available for people to listen to after the event via our social media platform, and some have almost 12,000 views. It’s an incredible opportunity for schools to get that level of exposure.” When asking parents why they visited the show, they all spoke of

how important it is for them to speak face to face to the schools. Other points raised were the ability for parents to meet Principals and senior staff from the school, rather than just admissions teams. It allowed them to ask very specific questions and get detailed responses. When asked why they had chosen to visit the school, Katie, a visitor at the show, said: “The School and Nursery Show was a great opportunity for us to find a school for our child. We were so confused by all of the choices available, especially about the curricula. Here you get to know about the different curricula available in the city and how to work out which is best for your child, which is very important.” The next Dubai edition of The School and Nursery Show will be in March 2022, and the dates for their Abu Dhabi show will be announced as soon as possible. If you’re an educator and wish to join, contact catherine@theschoolshow.ae

Contact  catherine@theschoolshow.ae  www.theschoolshow.ae Social media  @theschoolandnurseryshow  @theschoolandnurseryshow

30 Excellence In Schools

Jebel Ali School (JAS) Opens Sixth Form SEPTEMBER 2021 SPEAKING TO MRS E ROBINSON, PRINCIPAL AT JEBEL ALI SCHOOL AND MR J BATTEN, HEAD OF JAS SIXTH FORM, WE ASKED WHAT WE HAVE TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN SEPTEMBER.

MRS E ROBINSON, PRINCIPAL AT JEBEL ALI SCHOOL

Mr J BATTEN, HEAD OF JAS SIXTH FORM

Our pioneering timetable, which balances study time with a delayed school start time, and with a support team that includes our whole school counsellor, fosters students’ cognitive, physical and emotional development.

“Our Options and Aspirations Programme helps our students make a well-informed and confident transition to university and/or employment” “Whilst our Sixth Form is newly established, it is built on the longstanding reputation, values and ethos of our primary and secondary school. We continue to follow the National Curriculum for England and offer a wide array of A-levels and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).” “Personalised pathways and a pioneering timetable allow our students to select up to four A-levels subjects, receiving expert guidance from our subject specialists, who collectively have over 250 years of GCSE and A-level teaching experience.” “Besides our academic provision, Sixth Form students will follow our unique ETHOS programme, which includes; Enrichment, Tutor, Health & Wellbeing, Options & Aspirations, and our Skills (Life & Study) programmes.” We asked Mr J Batten, Head of JAS Sixth Form, to tell us about the JAS ETHOS programme and how will students benefit from it? “Our Enrichment programme offers our students an array of opportunities to develop essential skills, qualities and experiences in their industry of interest or aspiration. As a longstanding international school with

a wealth of community and business links, our students are supported in undertaking relevant work experience. They are offered extensive workshops alongside expert talks within a dedicated afternoon each week on their timetable. This programme is sure to enhance a student’s university and/or job application, and will also develop an abundance of personal qualities and career characteristics. “Each Sixth Form student is assigned a tutor group. Tutor groups are ‘vertical’, meaning students mix across Year 12 and Year 13, this encourages a community feel across the Sixth Form and Year 12 students are able to learn from Year 13 students as they prepare their applications and examination schedules. All students receive extensive academic and pastoral support with advice and guidance from their tutor, head of year and subject teachers. “JAS has always prioritised students’ health and well-being alongside their academics. The results of the annual GL Pupil Attitudes to Self and School (PASS) assessment, shows our students are amongst the happiest and most comfortable across Dubai, this remains a priority in the Sixth Form.

For more information, email admissions@jebelalischool.org or visit www.jebelalischool.org

“Our Options and Aspirations Programme helps our students make a well-informed and confident transition to university and/or employment. Mockinterviews, career days, industry talks, guidance meetings, use of Unifrog, and access to our Options and Aspirations Advisor, provides students with bespoke guidance and expert advice and in line with their aspirations.

“Personalised pathways and a pioneering timetable allow our students to select up to four A-levels subjects” “We know, through links with UK universities, that successful preparation for leaving home and studying abroad is essential, particularly for expatriate students. We believe that academic qualifications alone are not enough. JAS Sixth Form students will be suitably prepared through the completion of our innovative Skills (study skills and life skills) curriculum that fosters academic achievement and develops cooking, laundry, DIY, and other lifelong skills.”

Contact  admissions@jebelalischool.org  www.jebelalischool.org Podcast  www.jassixthform.podbean.com Social media @jassixthform @jebelalischoolofficial

Excellence In Schools

PEARSON HIGHLIGHTS EMERGING TRENDS IN THE EDUCATION INDUSTRY FROM ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS TO COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES, THE INDUSTRY IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING. WITH THE SUDDEN SHIFT AWAY FROM THE CLASSROOM, TEACHING AND LEARNING APPROACH CHANGED DRAMATICALLY AT AN UNPRECEDENTED SPEED, AND THE EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY (EDTECH) WAS FORCED TO UP ITS GAME QUICKLY.

ven before Covid-19, there was already high growth and adoption in education technology. Whether it is language apps, virtual tutoring, video conferencing tools, or online learning software, there has been a significant surge in usage since the pandemic started. Industry leaders suggest that the changes Covid-19 has caused for the education industry might be here to stay.

proven to be a convenient method of delivering and receiving education. One of the main reasons for adopting this type of learning is the fit with current pedagogical standards, namely the move from teacher-led to studentled learning. In this approach, when students team up together to work on a project or solve a problem, it helps build their collaborative skills; the constant interaction between teachers and students or with their peers helps develop their interpersonal skills.

Özhan Toktas, Managing Director of Pearson Middle East, highlights the key emerging trends that will collectively change how students learn and educators teach after Covid-19.

According to the Global Learner Survey 2020, 88% of individuals worldwide believe that education should take advantage of technology to maximise the learning experience for students of all ages.

The Rise of Online Learning The pandemic has accelerated digital disruption in the AED 246 billion education sector of the GCC region. EdTech is growing at 16.3% and will grow 2.5 times from 2019 to 2025, reaching $404 billion in total global expenditure. It has bridged the gap between teachers and students and made the whole learning approach a collaborative one. For 2021, we believe mLearning and eLearning will further grow in popularity as it helps students learn at their own pace and time and is

Nano Degrees as the New Must In the corporate world, an exploratory study conducted recently on the skills gap in the market revealed 75% of HR professionals report difficulty recruiting in the past 12 months due to a skills gap in job candidates. 52% of them say the skills shortage has worsened in the past two years, with the gap being most visible in the trades, middle-skilled jobs and high-skilled STEM jobs. Moreover, the skills gap is bound to leave a damaging impact on the economy over the next decade.

On the other hand, one in five workers says their professional skills are not up to date. To address this gap, business leaders are now looking to invest in skills planning which ensures the skills align with the workforce’s needs. Nano degrees, the content of which is in line with the requirements of large multinationals, HR heads and market specialists, are set to revolutionise the world of training and access to cutting-edge jobs on a global scale. Nano degree courses aren’t just a new trend to follow because it is cool; the certificate at the end of the course will attest to an individual’s new knowledge and practical skills and will be a valuable asset on the CV. Career-Focused Skills Hard facts and skills of most of the disciplines are changing as technology ripples through the economy and society. Today’s generation is inclined to have many jobs and careers through their professional lives, perhaps even at the same time, with the maturing of the gig economy. The soft skills of creative thinking, critical thinking, communication and leadership do not go out of date and remain in demand by employers. The combination of basic knowledge and skills may not require a degree. The future of work will not be about college degrees; it will be about job skills. The time is now to shift our focus from degrees to skills to enable a bigger workforce that represents the diversity of our populations and will help close the all too familiar opportunity and employment gaps.

Demand for International Higher Education will Continue to Grow The global demand for international study will continue along the existing trajectory of about 6% growth per year. Some of the most attractive study destinations include Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the US. The growth in short-term programming is fuelling the growth in study abroad. The demand for studying STEM fields is estimated to make up the largest group of students studying abroad by field, followed by business, social science, foreign languages and international studies, and fine and applied arts. It has been witnessed from past models that student mobility has proven surprisingly resilient to shocks, such as the global financial crisis or commodity crashes. In fact, in some cases, and for some groups of students, participation in higher education courses increases during an economic downturn as individuals see the slowdown in the job market as an opportunity to gain new qualifications. One of the essential requirements for students to study abroad is a valid score card of an accepted English Proficiency Test.

The pandemic has accelerated digital disruption in the AED 246 billion education sector of the GCC region EdTech is growing at 16.3% and will grow 2.5 times from 2019 to 2025 By 2022, 75 million jobs across 20 major economies will be displaced by emerging technologies

Upskilling, Reskilling and Preparing for the Future Since the industrial revolution in the 19th century, technologies have been changing, growing and adapting at an ever-increasing rate. The World Economic Forum’s 2018 Future of Jobs Report predicts that by 2022, 75 million jobs across 20 major economies will be displaced by emerging technologies. The same report highlights that 133 million new roles are expected to be created by these same technological advances. With employees looking for a sharp growth curve and organisations facing continuous change triggered by ongoing digital transformation, it’s essential for companies to rethink learning and development in the workplace. Contact +971 04 367 8618

Online testing and proctoring for these tests has surged during the coronavirus pandemic, helping both students and education providers during this period of disruption by encouraging students to continue with their aspiration to study abroad and for the universities to continue accepting applications for degree programmes.

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Excellence In Schools

AL FUTTAIM EDUCATION FOUNDATION PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH VOCATIONAL INTERNSHIPS THE ECONOMY IS CHANGING DAILY, AND WITH IT, THE TALENTS AND SKILLS REQUIRED TO BE SUCCESSFUL ARE EVOLVING TOO. THE JOB MARKET IS A COMPETITIVE ONE, AND OFTEN THAT IS A DEMANDING LEARNING CURVE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. THIS IS A BIG REASON BEHIND THE GROWTH OF INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, WHICH PROVIDE REAL-LIFE EXPERIENCE AND EXPOSURE. SO, IF YOU’RE LUCKY ENOUGH TO BE OFFERED A BENEFICIAL INTERNSHIP, IT CAN BE EXTRAORDINARILY VALUABLE FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER.

ecently, for example, AlFuttaim Automotive ran an exclusive Ramadan Internship programme for its Al Futtaim Education Foundation senior school students. The role was advertised on ‘A Future with Us’, and interested students had to submit a virtual application and were then scheduled for one-to-one interviews with the respective Branch Manager. Seventeen interns were selected from Deira International School and Universal American School in Dubai Festival City. The two sister schools are owned and operated by Al Futtaim Education Foundation. The interns were placed in Al-Futtaim Automotive’s Honda, Volvo, CJDR, Toyota, and Lexus showrooms as Customer Experience Representatives. The students reported to their respective Branch Managers on the first day of Ramadan following a two-day training and orientation run by the Automotive Academy. They also received uniforms and badges and, upon finishing the programme, a Certificate of Completion. The internship duration was from 13 April to 10 May, weekdays from 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

Today’s Talent, Tomorrow’s Success The students learned the ropes ‘on the floor’ of the various showrooms for one whole month, until Eid. Ramadan is the busiest time of the season for automotive dealerships, but the students were definitely up for the challenge and eager to get some hands-on experience in sales, communications and customer service. After completing the internship programme, Malaika Malik, a Grade 11 student from Universal American School, was invited onto Dubai Eye Radio 103.8 to discuss her experience and why she

chose an internship in a car showroom. In the interview, Malaika reflected on the process and talked about how she learned about all the car specifications and selling points, as well as the consumer’s buying process. She was also asked about her thoughts and predictions about car sales in the future, giving a very thoughtful and considered reply that belied her age and experience. It is not often that a 16-year-old gains real sales experience and gets the chance to sell the latest Land Cruiser – in less than a couple of weeks. The customers were quite surprised when they learned Malaika’s age, as she explained: “They were really shocked at my age; that I was 16, helping them purchase a car!” The reaction from Ray Addison, the journalist behind the Motor Mania radio show, summed up exactly how we all felt after hearing Malaika’s interview: “I think there will be a lot of people listening in, who own their businesses, who will be thinking I need somebody like Malaika working in my company.” In fact, so impressed was everyone at Dubai Eye Radio 103.8 that they now feature

PLAY VIDEO

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW 1. JOB DESCRIPTION POSTED TO STUDENTS 2. V IRTUAL INTERVIEWS AND ASSESSMENTS 3. T RAINING BY AUTOMOTIVE ACADEMY 4. 1 MONTH SHOWROOM INTERNSHIP 5. PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATES AND FEEDBACK

Malaika’s soundbites as part of their current promotional ads for the Motor Mania show! Hear the whole interview at https:// omny.fm/shows/motor-mania/1906-motor- mania-podcast There is no doubt that Malaika impressed everyone in the showroom, including the customers and showroom managers. Her excellent customer service and communication skills were very clear from the start. She also showed a positive can-do attitude and applied all of the problem-solving skills the IB framework had taught her during her studies at Universal American School. She used these skills to navigate around a whole new environment and without having any knowledge about car sales beforehand.

Seventeen interns were selected from the Deira International School and the Universal American School An Asset to Any Organisation The feedback from the Branch Managers on all of the interns was extremely positive, with an average rating of 2.83 (where one is fair and three is excellent). Typical comments included: “The intern was very supportive; she was punctual, approached the customers with a smile, did the basic qualification, and directed the customer to the right sales executive.” “I hope the current youth are all like these interns in terms of manners, behaviour, outlook and education. It would be safe to say the future is in good hands.” “The interns made a comparison chart on a whiteboard to better understand model specs and differences and would refer to it daily before we opened for business so that they were well prepared to interact with customers. They would be an asset to any organisation.” An internship can be a real confidence builder for a student. Being successful in the real world can inspire students to work harder at school and be more willing to take on challenges or be outside of their comfort zone. It’s an opportunity to get real work experience, solving real tasks. And this year, everyone was a winner, not least Al- Futtaim Automotive!

Excellence In Schools

BTECS OR A-LEVEL @ DIS Diyafah International School (DIS) is always looking to meet the needs of its students. One new idea is something that the UK has had in place for many years; the BTEC. The BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council) qualification offers an alternative route into university, apprenticeships or employment. This is a specialist, work-related qualification in subjects that include Business, Art & Design, Performing Arts and Sport. In DIS, they have trained staff to deliver a Science and Business Studies BTEC and will in future expand its BTEC offerings.

95% of UK universities accept BTEC’s for entry

DUBAI STUDENT WINS TITLE OF ACCA MIDDLE EAST FINANCE COMPETITION Christopher O’Mahoney, a student at Dubai College, has won first place in ACCA’s Middle East financial literacy competition, The ACCA Middle East 2021 Student Financial Champion. In a campaign mission to boost financial literacy across the Middle East, ACCA offered a unique opportunity to young finance hopefuls to gain a head start into the ACCA Qualification. Candidates were given the chance to study the foundations of bookkeeping as part of the ACCA-X programme and to take the free online test. Christopher commented: “I’ve really enjoyed doing the lessons. It’s a great interactive way of getting to learn the basics of accounting. Thank you to ACCA Middle East for giving me the opportunity to participate – I’m delighted to have done so well.”

HORIZON ENGLISH SCHOOL ANNOUNCES MAJOR INVESTMENT Following the recent exciting announcement that Horizon English School has joined Cognita, one of the world’s leading school groups, Horizon is now embarking on a comprehensive $3 million programme of improvements to its facilities and resources. Embodying Horizon’s vision of ‘Dream, Aspire, Achieve’, the improvements will provide even better learning opportunities for its pupils and, in turn, give them access to an even brighter future. One particular focus is the upgrade of Horizon’s IT infrastructure and Ed-Tech and includes implementing a

KINGS’ EDUCATION EXPANDS WITH OPENING OF NEW WINDSOR SCHOOL Kings’ Education has announced the opening of Windsor School, a new co-educational primary school to serve the districts of Jumeirah 1, Downtown, DIFC, Al Satwa, Business Bay, Deira and Karama. “At Windsor School, you will instantly recognise the Kings’ commitment to a robust and diverse British education, delivered by British-trained staff, that will transform young lives through individual care, academic range, and rich opportunities outside of the classroom,” said Rebecca Gray, Director of Education at Kings’. Windsor School is now open for admissions from FS1 (Foundation Stage 1) through to Year 6. To ensure the continuity of the Kings’ values and teaching standards, the first cohort of children will be welcomed by existing leaders from across the Kings’ Education group. Families are encouraged to visit windsor-edu.com for additional information on the founding principles of the school.

TWENTY 71 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SET FOR LAUNCH IN NAD AL SHEBA Nad al Sheba is set to benefit from a future focused community school, offering the California State Standards, and exceptional school leadership. Twenty 71 School will offer a holistic education to students from Pre-K to Grade 5, by utilising digital skills that will promote intellectual curiosity, social and emotional development and innovation between

learners. Coding, robotics and simulations will form a key part of how learning is delivered, which is designed to expose students to the skills needed to succeed in the 21st-century in a post-Covid-19 era.

Twenty 71 Elementary School will offer parents a future focussed education with fees starting at AED 25,000 for founding parents

one-to-one device programme for students. Other significant improvements include installing a FIFA-standard hybrid/natural grass football pitch, refurbished netball and tennis courts and widespread upgrades of shared-learning areas, classrooms and corridors.

Excellence In Schools

LEADING BY EXAMPLE AT ASPEN HEIGHTS BRITISH SCHOOL “As a leadership team at Aspen Heights British School - Abu Dhabi, we grasped this opportunity with enthusiasm. As an almost wholly female leadership team, we are committed to the ambitious development of our whole community; and 50% of these are female,” explains Principal Emma Shanahan.

COLLEGIATE AMERICAN SCHOOL RELAUNCHES AS COLLEGIATE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Innoventures Education, the UAE’s leading operator of world-class schools and nurseries, has unveiled Collegiate International School just in time for the new academic year that starts September 2021. The newly launched school offers competitively priced, world-class education, with fees from AED 33,000. Collegiate International School offers highly enhanced learning pathways with the inclusion of dual education options for students: IB continuum from primary until the IB Diploma Programme, the US High School Diploma and Advanced Placement (AP). The school’s goal is to provide a wide-ranging, internationally based education (IB), and a choice of pathways when the student is older – the US High School Diploma from Grade 9 (age 14), the more rigorous Advanced Placements (AP), alongside the IB Diploma Programme.

“There is no doubt that we are all very different; I am creative and passionate about people and language, whereas Dr Plumb, our Head of Secondary, is a chemistry specialist and a hands-on scientist. But at the same time, we are very similar with our ambition and a passion for inspiring excellence in our community. These differences make our team stronger as we see things differently; our shared values ensure we are all working towards the same goals. “We are confident that our students, male and female, are going to be leaders of the future - they will lead businesses, NGO’s, and countries; they will lead change, and they will lead future generations. We are excited to see all their accomplishments and the world they will thrive in.”

We like to challenge stereotypes at every opportunity

The school will blend a future-focused educational programme with extensive facilities, on a 30,000m2 campus in the heart of Dubai

STUDENTS GLOBALLY HAVE EXPERIENCED COUNTLESS HURDLES IN THEIR EDUCATION SINCE THE ONSET OF THE PANDEMIC

GEN Z REVEALS HOW THE PANDEMIC HAS AFFECTED THEIR SOCIAL, CAREER AND MENTAL HEALTH VIEWS

Pearson, the world’s leading learning company, has released the results from the first installment of the 2021 Global Learner Survey Series – a study that explores how the pandemic impacted what college students learned in and beyond the classroom. Over the past year, students globally have experienced countless hurdles in their education since the onset of the pandemic. This study reveals that for Gen Z, learning has taken on many forms

globally due to altered societal, career, and long-term mental health views. The study dives into what Gen Z has gained as a result of this educational shift and how it will impact their plans for the future.

FULL RESULTS CAN BE FOUND ONLINE AT: PLC.PEARSON.COM/FUTURE-LEARNING/GLOBAL-LEARNER-SURVEY

THE SEARCH IS ON FOR YOUNG WRITERS The Emirates Literature Foundation’s search for the nation’s best young story writers has begun, with the launch of its annual creative writing competition for students, the Story Writing Competition. A fixture on the academic calendar, the competition runs in Arabic and English and is open to full-time students in schools, colleges and universities in the GCC. It is divided into age-specific categories: 11 and under, 12-14, 1517 and 18-25. The winners will be honoured in a special ceremony held

during the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature in 2022, and the winning entries are published in an anthology. This year the theme for the competitions is ‘Here Comes the Sun’. The deadline for submissions is 3 November 2021.

FOR THE GUIDE ON REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMISSION DETAILS FOR EACH COMPETITION, SEE HERE

STORY WRITING COMPETITIONS NOW OPEN

Excellence In Schools

EVO HANNAN: A TEACHER WHO GIVES YOU MORE TO TAKE HOME THAN JUST HOMEWORK WHEN AT SCHOOL – A LONG TIME AGO – MY FAVOURITE TEACHER, AND THE ONE I WAS MOST INSPIRED BY, WAS ALSO AN ENTERTAINER. ONE OF MY FONDEST MEMORIES WAS OF HIM READING JABBERWOCKY, COMPLETE WITH ALL OF THE VOICES AND FACIAL EXPRESSIONS. SPEAKING TO EVO HANNAN, THE OUTGOING HEAD OF DESIGN AND INNOVATION AT DWIGHT SCHOOL DUBAI, REMINDED ME OF ‘MR WILDE’ BECAUSE HE HAS A SIMILAR APPROACH, INFORMING AND ENTERTAINING HIS STUDENTS IN A MANNER THAT WILL LIVE WITH THEM FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES. WE SPOKE TO EVO TO DISCUSS HIS LOVE OF TEACHING, INNOVATION, EDTALKS, AND HIS ONGOING ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY. EDUAE: How did you get into education? Evo: It wasn’t a conscious choice. I graduated as a designer, and I was looking for something that would enable me to get me on the ladder, and design jobs were relatively scarce. I came across an opportunity to train as a Design and Technology at my local John Moore University. I spoke to my previous D&T teacher, who thought I should give it a try, and I’ve been in education ever since. I found my love for teaching very early on whilst training - inspiring the next generation teaching something you’re passionate about, in my case, design, invention and innovation. Back then, as a teacher, I was practising design a lot more, so students would see me working on some design projects at lunchtime. I didn’t see teaching as a job. I saw it as an opportunity to get people enthusiastic about life, and 20 years later, I’m doing the same thing, I’m passing on my passion to the students. EDUAE: So, how did the Dubai opportunity arise? Evo: I taught at a high achieving secondary school on the Wirral in England, called Upton Hall School and

was fortunate to land a job straight out of university in my NQT year. A lovely place to teach, great students, forwardthinking leadership and inspiring faculty. After six years in a teaching role, I was keen to develop as a middle leader. There were few opportunities available locally, and I spoke to friends who were considering working abroad. I contacted a teaching agency, and it wasn’t long before I was offered a position in one of my dream places to work, Dubai. EDUAE: Did you look for a new school? Evo: I was aware that Dubai was a very progressive city and was keen to explore more. After reading up about schools, laws and opportunities, I felt it was the right choice for me. The school I interviewed for, Deira International School, had a good reputation and a new campus. It felt like the right fit for me, so I made the move in August 2007. I taught there for nine years and was a middle leader for the last six years, leading Visual Arts and working on some remarkable innovation projects with leading brands across the region. I was fortunate to be featured in local publications and was spotted

by a headteacher who had also heard of me from a colleague I previously worked with. This led to a coffee and chat about a new design facility, which led to an unexpected job opportunity, leading Design and Innovation across the school, in 2016. A few years later, a similar chance to lead innovation and the Spark Tank at the new Dwight School Dubai in September 2018, was offered to me, and it’s been my home for the last three years. EDUAE: And now you’re leaving to move back to the UK, but staying in the education world? Evo: The education profession is a great community. Constantly changing, innovative and full of supportive people who want the best for you, it’s an inspiring community. I’ve spent 20 years inspiring students, teachers and leaders to innovate, and I’ve been recently thinking maybe I should give myself a chance to explore new opportunities in education and innovate more outside the classroom. Post-Covid education requires a shift in the way we approach education and has opened up new doors for teachers to expand their horizons.

I’ll be building an office/studio to help kick start the new business called Innovation X I am currently working on in my spare time Post-Covid education requires a shift in the way we approach education and has opened up new doors for teachers to expand their horizons

EDUAE: So, that’s the direction you’re now moving? Evo: Yes, creating projects and ideas that help inspire a shift in education. So, I’ll be moving to West Sussex with my wife, Anne-Marie and my two children, Zakaria and Zara. We are renovating the house, and I’ll be building an office/studio to help kick start the new business called Innovation X I am currently working on in my spare time. EDUAE: After being in teaching for 20 years, what do you think makes a good teacher? Evo: Someone who builds positive relationships with the students and actively seeks to connect with every individual. EDUAE: During a recent visit to London, I was stopped by a group of youths on pushbikes who I think wanted to relieve me of my personal belongings, or maybe they just wanted to know the time? It was impossible to tell, as I’m not fluent in gangster lingo. But I often think these kinds of kids would have the most potential if they had good teachers who could help them channel their energy correctly? Evo: Absolutely! It’s the tenacious ones I like the most. I find them the easiest to connect with, and they are the students I learn most from. They challenge the way you do things, which can lead to inspiring new ideas. We need tenacious

individuals in the global innovation space because they will question what is currently being done and why we can’t approach it in another way. EDUAE: And you do EdTalks – will you be carrying on with these when you return to the UK? Evo: I will be. I am getting into using and producing media a lot more. My office at home will be more like a media studio, which will provide a creative space to produce live broadcasts like EdTalks live, which I hope to expand to three times a week. Over my past two seasons, it has become clear that different regions have different needs and perspectives on educational trends. I’m hoping to start a new season that caters specifically to the three regions I am most familiar with, the Middle East and Asia, UK and the USA.

It’s a great community, lots of positive students and staff. I’ll be staying in touch with the team at the school to follow its developments over the coming years. EDUAE: What’s your first venture with Innovation X? Evo: My first service is called Vertigo, a social media agency for schools. After several discussions with friends and exploring various possibilities, this became the idea that felt most in line with how I wanted to progress. I’ve been actively using social media to develop connections and spread positive messages about education, innovation and design for three years now and am now fortunate to have a good network that expands across the globe. I aim to use this experience coupled with my love for teaching and learning to support schools, universities and edtech companies to connect and engage with the right audience. EDUAE: Put simply, enjoying life and helping others – you can’t imagine it getting much better than that? Evo: This is the best feeling, helping others reach their full potential through big thinking and forward-thinking ideas.

This will also provide opportunities to work with edtech companies and publications such as Education UAE. EDUAE: Is there a bit of sadness on leaving Dwight School after three years? Evo: For sure. I watched Dwight School Dubai being built and was part of the team that opened its doors on its very first day. It’s the first and possibly the last new school I’ll ever teach in. I’ve had students asking what I’ll be doing next.

Contact +971 55 777 9675  info@evohannan.com  www.evohannan.com Social media  EvoHannan

 evohannan

 evohannan

 Evohannan

Excellence In Schools

Sprechen sie Deutsch? SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL DUBAI’S (SISD), DUBAI’S FIRST BILINGUAL INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE SCHOOL, IS SEEING AN EXPLOSIVE GROWTH IN GERMAN CLASSES, DRIVEN BY AN INCREASING NUMBER OF GERMAN NATIONALS MOVING TO THE EMIRATE.

he bilingual school offers dual language teaching in several different languages, but German is growing in popularity.

Incoming Principal Ruth Burke explains: “We are witnessing a large influx of European families to Dubai. They understand the International Baccalaureate system, which was founded in Switzerland, and it holds more appeal than the British educational system. We coach our pupils to become truly global citizens. Parents also see value in the fact that our school already has a multinational demographic – there’s a large cohort of German, Swiss, French and Italian students here already.” The new Head also underlined that more German families are moving to the emirate thanks to several factors, including escaping the rigours of European pandemic lockdown, the new free zones offering exciting new work and business set up opportunities,

and the new remote working visa, which allows foreign nationals to continue their normal role while working remotely from Dubai. “The UAE’s response to Covid-19 is highly regarded, and the speed of the vaccination programme too. A lot of our new German pupils already have family and friends here. Parents are now less likely to send their children away to boarding school in Germany or other places, as we can increase their knowledge of their mother tongue, while they remain close to their families and enjoy all that Dubai has to offer,” adds Ruth. The importance of German teaching is underlined by the fact that there are some 230 million German speakers in the world. Figures suggest those who are bilingual in German can increase their earning potential by some EUR125,000 simply by virtue of having command of the language. Germany is also Europe’s largest US trading partner, and German is the second most popular language on the internet!

Al Jaddaf-based SISD offers pupils a full English / German bilingual programme for native speakers and an English / German language acquisition programme for non-native speakers. This is an educational offering not delivered anywhere else in Dubai’s educational sphere – at least in any other language than Arabic. Ruth concludes: “Our reputation grows from strength to strength as we welcome more students from all over the world, including Germany, as both boarding and day students.

Bilingual teaching to all students aged 3-18

Leading such a truly international school is thrilling, challenging and highly rewarding. The whole school community is working together to create a bright new future driven by the collective aim of providing the very best start in life for our curious, happy students. Who knows, we may be nurturing a 21st century Mozart or Nietzsche!”

Non bilingual students can opt for four German classes a week; only school in Dubai to offer this level of language acquisition to all students from the age of three

Excellence In Schools

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE DATING BACK TO 1509 THE ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL GUILDFORD DUBAI (RGSGD) WILL WELCOME ITS FIRST PUPILS IN SEPTEMBER 2021. DESIGNED FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED FROM 3 TO 18, THE CAMPUS WILL INITIALLY BE ACCEPTING PRIMARY AGE PUPILS (AGE 3 -11) AND WILL THEN GROW YEAR BY YEAR.

RGSGD is the sister school of one of the most respected and successful schools in the United Kingdom, the Royal Grammar School Guildford (RGS), which has been providing an unrivalled education for over 500 years. RGS is consistently one of the top schools at both A-Level and GCSE in the UK and is exceptionally proud of its Oxbridge record; in the last decade alone, over 350 of its pupils received offers of places from Oxford and Cambridge universities. This history and tradition, combined with a spirit of innovation and development, will prepare RGSGD pupils for the challenges of the 21st and 22nd centuries. Leading by example and staying true to its values and commitment to innovation and collaboration, RGSGD will always strive to be the very best it can be, sharing the same ethos and academic rigour as its parent school. Although a focus of the school will inevitably be on academic achievement, RGSGD will mirror the original school in its culture of being ‘forward-looking with a big heart of which academia is just one part of a richer experience’.

A particular strength of the school is its mentoring programme, whereby older pupils are responsible for supporting younger pupils in the school. The school offers its pupils a happy, well-ordered and stimulating environment where they can progress to their full potential. The English National Curriculum, considered the gold standard of education, is both broad and individualised at the same time and is carefully planned to maintain a balance between ‘what’ is to be learned alongside ‘how’ we learn. OUTSTANDING INTERNATIONAL EDUCATORS To complement the experienced, passionate, innovative, creative and committed staff at RGS Guildford in the UK, the team at RGSGD are made up of outstanding international educators with vision and drive, who are also committed to making RGSGD a phenomenal experience for our pupils and their families.

The student/teacher ratio supports personalised learning for all pupils, with a maximum class size of 20 in EYFS and 22 in subsequent years. This is about more than just ratio – it is about a commitment to each and every pupil: that staff will know them, look in detail at their individual journey and support them in their progress. Character development through the Riyada curriculum and learning habits will encourage pupils to understand how they learn, how to acquire the tool kit that allows them, as young people, to have the skills to thrive in an ever-changing world. This, in turn, will enable pupils to understand and not be daunted by some of the significant challenges in the world. It allows them to understand how they can make a positive impact and become global thinkers.

46 Excellence In Schools

SCHOOL VALUES Inclusivity RGSGD remains loyal to its founding principles to educate students, irrespective of background, and inherently believe in establishing a culture of diversity and acceptance, and educating students in a welcoming, tolerant community where each individual is valued and enjoys a deep sense of belonging.

The team at RGSGD are made up of outstanding international educators with vision and drive

Scholarship RGSGD encourages intellectual curiosity, independence, creativity, innovation and habits of learning within a scholarly community through inspirational subject specialists who provoke and stretch the students’ minds and inculcate a lifelong love of learning. Integrity RGSGD promotes self-discipline, responsibility, and a personal moral code, cultivating an ethos where enduring qualities of decency, honesty, courtesy, humility, and good humour are celebrated. Respect RGSGD nurture an atmosphere of mutual respect between all members of its community and foster selfrespect and self-esteem in terms of physical health, emotional maturity and personal well-being, while establishing lasting friendships in a positive, happy environment. Courage RGSGD develops leadership, teamwork, resilience, and life skills through diverse activities where all students, regardless of their talents and attributes, are encouraged to challenge themselves, take appropriate risks, and work hard to fulfil their potential. Collaboration RGSGD work closely with others for mutual enrichment and encourage a spirit of generosity and service, a sense of perspective, and a firm belief that it can work in partnership with others, locally and internationally, to make a difference and have a positive impact on society.

ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR The RGSGD campus has been designed with sustainability at its core. This approach has led to an array of accolades and accreditations, including the ‘Energy Project of the Year’ award at the Big Project Middle East Awards. Considered to be the first nearly Zero Energy School in the region, RGSGD is also the first project in the Middle East to receive a BREEAM rating, one of the leading global metrics used for sustainable development. This school campus is far more than just a set of buildings with classrooms, labs, offices and sports facilities. It is an entire learning ecosystem whose facilities, layout and design principles are all part of every pupils’ journey. As such, the RGSGD campus was built not only to support each pupil with quality facilities but also to embody the values of the school as a whole.

A particular strength of the school is its mentoring programme, whereby older students are responsible for supporting younger students in the school As part of its commitment to providing teachers and pupils with a quality learning environment, RGSGD is incredibly excited to deliver world-class facilities that will provide every child with access to the level of education needed to thrive in the 21st century.

SCHOOL TOURS ARE NOW AVAILABLE REGISTER HERE and the Admissions team will contact you to organise a convenient date and time.

SOME OF THE NEW APPOINTMENTS AT ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL GUILDFORD DUBAI

Mr Joe Creal, Assistant Head, Upper KS2, a former student and current teacher at RGS Guildford in the UK, is extremely excited to be part of the founding team at the Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai (RGSGD). He is very much looking forward to bringing to Dubai the spirit of the Royal Grammar School Guildford in the UK, a school that he loves and knows so well. Mrs Laura Evans, Head of Inclusion, is a proud custodian of the Royal Grammar School Guildford’s values and learning habits after heading up the Learning Support and EAL Departments at the Prep school at RGS Guildford in the UK for the past 11 years. Mrs Evans is already with the team in Dubai, assisting with pupil assessments ahead of the opening of the school.

Mr James Bennett, Director of Sport, brings more than 15 years of experience teaching at prestigious preparatory schools in the UK. Mr Bennett was once the Director of Sport at RGS Guildford in the UK and has extensive coaching experience in cricket, football, swimming, athletics, gymnastics and climbing. Mrs Angela Sutherland, Head of Early Years, has 16 years of school leadership experience across the primary age range from roles in the UK and the Middle East. Mrs Sutherland is delighted to be bringing her knowledge and experience to RGSGD and joins from a school in the UAE, which has consistently been rated outstanding for the past five years for its Early Years Department. Mrs Beckie Bennett, Assistant Head of Key Stage 1, has more than 10 years of primary, early years and sports teaching experience. After spending the last three years as a Deputy Head, Mrs Bennett is highly experienced in adapting to teaching various cultures and nationalities. She is looking forward to getting started ahead of the opening of RGSGD in August. Mr Imran Akhtar, Assistant Head, Lower Key Stage 2, has 13 years of teaching experience in the UK and the UAE. He joins from a primary school in the UK, where he was a member of the Senior Leadership Team and a Curriculum and Phase Leader. He is looking forward to returning to Dubai, having previously worked at an outstanding rated school here. Mrs Sajida Al Bashir, Head of Arabic and Islamic Studies, brings 24 years of Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies teaching experience from schools across the Middle East to the role at RGSGD. She joins as Head of Arabic and Islamic Studies and is an experienced Head of Department who regularly contributes to conferences and national debates about curriculum developments.

Excellence In Schools

SOME OF THE NEW APPOINTMENTS THESE NEW APPOINTMENTS REPRESENT NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS DURING A YEAR OF UNPRECEDENTED DISRUPTION AND CHANGE. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL ON THEIR NEW ROLES.

FAIRGREEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR

DWIGHT SCHOOL DUBAI APPOINTS ASSOCIATE DIPLOMA COORDINATOR

Fairgreen International School, part of the Esol Education family of international schools, has appointed Mr. Edward Pearce as its new Director, beginning the 2021-2022 academic year. With over 20 years of international school leadership and teaching experience, he joins Fairgreen with a firm belief in building strong leadership teams, a background in school improvement, and a passion for sustainability.

Dwight School Dubai has announced announce the appointment of Peter Atkins as the Associate Diploma Coordinator at Dwight School Dubai. Peter brings to his role more than 16 years of experience teaching the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and has held senior leadership positions in schools in the UK, Italy and the UAE, with his subject specialisms being Business Management and Economics.

“AN EXPERIENCED LEADER WITH AN INTERNATIONAL TRACK RECORD OF IMPRESSIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS” Most recently, Mr Pearce held a four-year post as Head of School at The British International School Chicago, Lincoln Park in the United States, where he received a prestigious Cannes Award for his school’s ‘Floating Gardens’ conservation project, aimed at rehabilitating river banks and local wildlife, in consultation with Chicago-based Urban Rivers. “Fairgreen is focused on innovation and preparing students to be a voice and means for positive change in the world, and I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to guide and direct this inspiring momentum,” said Mr Pearce.

“PETER BRINGS TO HIS ROLE MORE THAN 16 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TEACHING THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAMME” Through his work as an IB Workshop Leader, he has facilitated training for over 150+ IB Coordinators and Senior Leaders, as well as being a Senior Examiner for IB Business Management and the IB Extended Essay. Peter has successfully led IB World Schools through all stages of authorisation, implementation, development and evaluation of the IB Diploma Program.

NEW PRINCIPAL AT DUBAI BRITISH SCHOOL JUMEIRAH PARK

Dubai British School Jumeirah Park is delighted to announce that its Vice-Principal, Rebecca Coulter will be transitioning to Principal commencing August 2021. Rebecca is a University of Cambridge graduate and holds a UK teaching qualification and an Honours degree in Music, which reflects her lifelong passion for the expressive arts. Responsible for school improvement and leading and managing change, Rebecca has genuine expertise in safeguarding, student personal and social development, leading staff and teacher development, specifically evidence-informed learning, innovation in education pedagogy and whole campus health and Safety. “REBECCA IS A UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE GRADUATE AND HOLDS A UK TEACHING QUALIFICATION” Rebecca’s interests extend beyond the classroom and include maintaining her talents as a violinist, long-distance running, musical theatre and enjoying the outdoor life of Dubai with her family.

SIMON O’CONNOR FROM DEIRA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF COBIS

GLEN RADOJKOVICH, NEW HEAD OF SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT (UK & IB) AT TAALEEM.

GLOBAL INDIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, DUBAI, ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW PRINCIPAL

Al Futtaim Education Foundation has announced that Simon O’Connor, School Director of Deira International School, has been elected to the Board of The Council of British International Schools, the leading global association for international British schools overseas. Deira International School is an accredited COBIS member school and is owned and operated by Al Futtaim Education Foundation, a not-for-profit foundation.

Glen has been in Executive Leadership positions for 20+ years, implementing a variety of curriculum across primary and secondary levels in NZ, Singapore, South Korea and the UAE. He is very familiar with both the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge University International Examinations. Glen is a former Chairman of the IB Heads Association and Chairman of the Cambridge University International Examinations.

The Global Indian International School Dubai has announced that Antony Koshy has been appointed as their new Principal starting 21 May 2021. Antony Koshy brings with him a rich experience of almost three decades in the education sector. A visionary educator, Antony has pioneered some of the most promising pedagogies in nextgen learning. He is also renowned as an innovator, creating various digital tools for technology-based teaching and learning.

“SIMON HAS OVER 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION MANAGEMENT AND AS A SCHOOL LEADER” Simon O’Connor will join the COBIS board and contribute with significant knowledge and experience of international school leadership. Simon has over 25 years of experience in education management and as a school leader and joined Deira International School in 2020.

THE AQUILA SCHOOL IN DUBAI APPOINTS NEW HEAD OF SECONDARY

The Aquila School, part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), has appointed Benjamin Atkins as the Head of Secondary, beginning the 2021/2022 academic year. Benjamin, a Fellow of the UK’s Chartered College of Teaching, joins The Aquila School with an array of educational experiences. Most recently from another popular school in Dubai, where he was a part of the team that achieved high ratings from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the British Schools Overseas (BSO).

GLEN IS A FORMER CHAIRMAN OF THE IB HEADS ASSOCIATION He has also been an advisor to Ministries of Education in five countries and, most recently, was a Head of School/CEO in Dubai.

SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DUBAI ANNOUNCES NEW DEPUTY HEAD

IAIN COLLEDGE HAS BEEN APPOINTED AS TAALEEM’S DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

Iain Colledge has been appointed to his new post after five successful years as Executive Principal of Taaleem’s award-winning Raha International School. The dual-campus IB school in Abu Dhabi, with over 2,500 students, has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by ADEK in consecutive inspections. The new role further expands his current remit supporting Taaleem’s three other IB schools, including the British curriculum school portfolio. He will also take a key role at executive board level to support the continual development of educational standards and portfolio expansion across the group.

Swiss International School Dubai has announced the appointment of Rania Hussein as new Deputy Head. Educated in Saudi Arabia, Canada, and the UK, bilingual educator Rania is an IB graduate and an expert in the specialised curriculum. She serves as an Examiner for English Language and Literature with the International Baccalaureate organisation. RRania has worked within the IB Programme for her entire teaching career, shaped by her international upbringing and experiences. After attending several international schools in the Middle East, Rania graduated with Honours in Mass Communication and Media Studies from the University of Western Ontario, Canada. Upon completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at the UK’s University of Sunderland, she began a successful teaching career as Head of Year and Head of House at the British International School of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, simultaneously teaching the IB Diploma Programme and IGCSE.

Excellence In Schools

SIMPLE WAYS TO INTRODUCE SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING (SEL) IN YOUR CLASSROOM IN EDUCATION, THE TRADITIONAL SCHOOL OF THOUGHT HAS HISTORICALLY CENTRED AROUND THE BELIEF THAT EDUCATION AND EMOTIONS MUST ALWAYS BE KEPT DISTINCT FOR ENSURING THE BEST LEARNING OUTCOMES. HOWEVER, THAT IDEOLOGY SEEMS TO BE A THING OF THE PAST, AND TODAY EDUCATORS GLOBALLY ARE REALISING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT CAN HAVE ON A STUDENT.

eachers now universally agree that social and emotional skills play a critical role in individual student progress and group cohesiveness and recognise their role in advancing educational equity and excellence. This is captured by the concept of SEL (Social Emotional Learning). What Exactly is SEL? CASEL defines Social Emotional Learning (SEL) as the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions, achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions. In simplistic terms, SEL provides a foundation for safe and positive learning and improving a student’s ability to succeed in school, careers and, in fact, life. SEL processes essentially try to address five core competence areas under their ambit. These include:  Self Awareness  Self Management  Social Awareness  Relationship Skills  Responsible Decision Making

Simple Ways to Introduce SEL into your Classroom There are many simple and nearly effortless ways through which you can integrate SEL activities in your classroom and provide students with the opportunity to grow holistically. Here are five such ways – 1. Introduce brief morning meetings Starting the day with a fixed routine of brief morning meetings can be a very simple way to connect with all the children in the classroom and set the tone to instil the keys to successful socio-emotional learning skills throughout the day. Such meetings offer a quick chance to address items that may not be covered in the academic curriculum; by making room for a few minutes in the morning or even in the afternoon; before wrapping up. As a teacher, you could include straightforward activities in such meetings, such as encouraging kids to greet each other, have positive discussions, build relationships, or share what they are thankful for with the class. Such simple interventions can reinforce SEL skills and turn the class into a haven to share expectations. 2. Conduct partner assignment or group activities Group or partner activities offer an interesting and effective way to build social and emotional abilities in young minds.

You could even ask them to maintain a gratitude journal and include what they are thankful for every day to encourage gratitude writing as a form of selfexpression.

Writing is one of the best and most comfortable ways for anyone to feel safe while sharing opinions, feelings, and reactions

By design, they make children interact with one another and engage in collective problem solving while having fun. The result is improved communications skills and empathy. To implement the same, you need not always plan deliberate group activities all the time. You can pause your lectures, pair students, and ask them to discuss what they have understood with their partner. If you do assign some group tasks, you must hand out clear expectations for ensuring the best results. 3. Introduce journal writing Writing is one of the best and most comfortable ways for anyone to feel safe while sharing opinions, feelings,

and reactions – including children who are introverts by nature. Written communication allows a way to freely express ideas, hopes, and challenges while also clarifying a student’s thinking process. By encouraging children to write a personal journal, you can present them with the chance to reflect on what they have heard or learnt and form their own thoughts about any topic. Simple ways to introduce journal writing in class can be by asking students to record their thoughts after discussing a social and/or emotional topic or alternately sharing their feedback from a story they may have read or heard.

Research has shown that SEL can improve academic achievement by 11 percentile points

4. Start creative challenges Another great way to develop SEL skills among children is by making it feel like a healthy gamified challenge. For instance, you could choose a virtue every week or month and encourage students to come up with ways to develop and express that. For instance, let us consider kindness. As a teacher, you could encourage the class to do random acts of kindness and then share what they did with the rest of the class. This could also be organised as a challenge where the class is divided into small groups, and each group is expected to brainstorm and come up with ideas or perform role-play acts to display their skills. 5. Encourage reading habits The magical power of children’s books is well recognised across the globe for igniting imagination in young minds while also developing essential reasoning and literacy skills. What kids’ stories also do while they read or listen is to allow a greater chance to relate, connect and pick up social and emotional strategies from the fictional characters in them. Hence, as an educator, instilling an inclination for reading is one of the best things for a child’s holistic development. From an SEL perspective, you could give your class access to libraries with books meant for their age. You could also choose some books to read out to them or encourage using reading apps with read-aloud features. Once they have read what’s been instructed, you could question them with some preprepared questions to elicit meaningful conversation and ensure optimal outcomes. By choosing to make SEL a part of your teaching agenda, you can inspire the minds and hearts of future generations and make a lasting and positive impact!

Excellence In Schools

CREATING A NEW GENERATION OF PERFORMERS IT'S NO SECRET THAT GETTING CHILDREN INVOLVED IN THE PERFORMING ARTS CAN HAVE A SIGNIFICANT PAYOFF IN SCHOOL. RESEARCH SHOWS THAT YOUNGSTERS WHO SING, DANCE AND ACT ARE FOUR TIMES MORE LIKELY TO BE RECOGNISED FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT THAN THEIR NONPERFORMING FRIENDS. THEY ARE ALSO PREDISPOSED TO HAVING SUPERIOR COGNITIVE, MOTOR, AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT. BUT THE BENEFITS DON'T STOP THERE. GETTING UP ON STAGE AND PERFORMING CAN ENRICH A CHILD'S LIFE IN ALL SORTS OF SURPRISING WAYS, SUCH AS MASTERING ANXIETY, RAISING SELF-ESTEEM AND EXPRESSING BRAND NEW EMOTIONS.

Excellence In Schools

Editorial credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com

Johnny and I share the same kind of background – I'm from the pop group Steps, and he is from the pop group Hear'Say

o if 'art for art's sake' doesn't seem worth the time, perhaps the fact that the performing arts can provide children with an awareness about themselves and the opportunity to develop creative skills they'd never learn anywhere else does. And if for no other reason, it's about time that singing and dancing were put on the school curriculum. Lisa Scott-Lee, co-founder of Dubai Performing Arts Live and Dubai Performing Arts Academy (DPA), and a member of the phenomenally successful British pop group Steps, agrees, saying: "I feel that the performing arts has always been in the shadows, and I believe that there should be a lot more awareness towards the benefits. That should start with children in schools, and that's really why myself and Johnny (co-founder Johnny ShentallLee, DPA Live choreographer and creative director) created and launched Dubai Performing Arts Academy."

 ABOVE: Lisa Scott-Lee and Johnny Shentall-Lee, co-founders of Dubai Performing Arts Live and Dubai Performing Arts Academy (DPA)  LEFT: Lisa Scott-Lee (centre) with Steps

THE PERFORMING ARTS – WHERE WORK MEETS LOVE Arriving in Dubai in 2011, Lisa and husband Johnny landed at DBX with two children, two suitcases and a twoyear plan! "It's an incredible city, and we felt very welcome and very safe straightaway. And we quickly spotted a gap in performing arts training for children, which was always at the front of our minds, and launched DPA in 2014. "Johnny and I share the same kind of background – I'm from the pop group Steps, and he is from the pop group Hear'Say, as well as having performed on the West End stage in London; he was one of the original cast of Footloose, playing one of the lead roles, Chuck. "We met during the first open auditions for Steps, leading up to our very first tour at the end of the 90s. Johnny walked in with thousands of other dancers, and he got the job; there were only five spaces at that time, and he was one of the original Steps dancers. So we toured the world together, and we shared the same ambition to have a performing arts school, so it's wonderful that it has come to fruition in Dubai."

DPA offers all aspects of the performing arts, taking in everything from private singing lessons to drama exams with the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). "We offer performing arts solely for children who just want to have fun, enjoy the social interaction and grow in confidence, as well as offering classes with the option of taking an examination because a lot of children are serious performers," Lisa explains. “We have a lot of talent here in Dubai and the wider UAE, and so many of our students do want to go onto prestigious vocational colleges such as Italia Conti, where I trained in London, Performers where Johnny trained, and also ArtsEd (Arts Educational) PPA and GSA (Guildford School of Acting) where Johnny taught at Degree level." Inspiring and training children at the grassroots is the raison d'être of DPA, with the entire team fully aware of the many health benefits associated with the performing arts, not just from a physical point of view but from a mental point of view too.

Indeed, they can be taken alongside A-levels or taken as a standalone BTEC. A BTEC is a vocational qualification, which means that it is career-focused and grounded in the real world. Students work to gain skills and knowledge in their subject area and then put those skills into practice.

In fact, with everyone being in lockdown in Dubai, DPA had over 500 students who were crying out for the performing arts – they were locked down in their homes, weren't going to school every day, and weren't having that all-important social interaction with their peers and teachers. So DPA did something rather special, which highlighted its position at the heart of the community. "Johnny and I decided to give something back," Lisa begins. "We had our full-time teachers at DPA, highly qualified and very passionate, and they were, of course, in lockdown in their respective homes. So we decided to launch a campaign to keep children active during lockdown. And not only children in the UAE, we also invited children from the UK and worldwide; we had children signing in from Australia and many other places. “We offered free performing arts classes for the whole of the lockdown in Dubai. There were hundreds of children logging on by Zoom – six days a week, where we offered multiple classes and genres, and it was just incredible because everyone feels helpless when they're in the middle of a pandemic, and this really helped to keep children fit and active. We were greeted daily by lots of smiles, which helped us through lockdown also. The feedback made us feel very humble. It was not just from the children but from the parents too, who also needed that support. We had numerous emails and letters telling us how we'd helped children and families get through lockdown, and that's something we're proud of."

INHALE POSSIBILITY, EXHALE CREATIVITY Lisa, Johnny and her team have a lot to be proud of, not least introducing a BTEC Level 3 in Performing Arts to Dubai. "Even before we moved out to Dubai, we were discussing the idea of further education because Johnny has taught at several amazing vocational schools; that's his area of expertise, and he's such an incredible teacher – so inspiring, so humble and very talented," Lisa says. A BTEC is ideal for the performing arts because it's a qualification based on practical study rather than academic study. And let's bust one myth here – BTECs do not have to be an alternative to other qualifications such as A-levels.

"We are passionate about introducing the performing arts into the school curriculum, which we think is key," Lisa continues. "There are after-school clubs in the various disciplines, but we want the performing arts to be accessible in all schools and for all nationalities. Music and dance are universal, and every child should have the opportunity to explore them and enjoy the benefits, including getting up on stage. "So the BTEC is something that we've had in our minds for quite a few years, but it really took off when we met Clive Pierrepont, then Director of Communications at Taaleem PJSC, at an Awards Ceremony in Dubai. Clive was on the next table, and at one point came over to speak to me, saying, 'I recognise you; you're Lisa from Steps, and you run DPA with Johnny, so why aren't you in our Taaleem schools?' To cut a long story short, we met for coffee the very next day and quickly realised that we all felt very passionate about raising awareness of the performing arts within the school curriculum.

Excellence In Schools

and performance, where they have the opportunity to bring to life the skills and techniques they have learnt. The course is equivalent to two A-levels for the BTEC Level 3 Diploma. There is also an Extended Diploma that offers the equivalent of three A-levels. Prospective students within the Sixth Form are expected to meet the general requirements of four 9-5 (I) GCSE grades or higher, with a pass in English Language and Mathematics. There are a limited number of scholarships available, too.

"Clive introduced me to Dubai British School, Jumeirah Park (DBSJP), which was a new school at the time, and he had already partnered with our late friend and celebrated Michelin Star Chef, Gary Rhodes OBE, to launch a new ‘healthy eating and family dining’ school meal initiative. DBSJP has got wonderful facilities – it has a purpose-built 500-seater theatre, which is where we now have the DPA offices. We have four dance studios, and Taaleem has built an exclusive area for Sixth Form and BTEC students. So we very much came together as a partnership, and after about three years of this partnership, we introduced the idea of the BTEC." Everyone was behind this game-changing idea, including Alan Williamson, CEO at Taaleem, who loved the whole concept from the very beginning. "We were then able to link up with Pearson in the UK, which is the affiliated board that oversees our BTEC course," Lisa explains. "We launched in September 2020, so we've got our first year of students, and they're fantastic – it is so exciting to be offering something new to the region. "Johnny is a choreographer, and he choreographs a lot of shows here, and we work with a London production company, and they flew over a professional cast at Christmas and our BTEC students performed alongside them in around 20 shows over the festive period. So for us

to be able to offer unique opportunities outside of the classroom and studio is what makes our BTEC unique." Of course, it's also run by an internationally famous pop star and a leading light from the West End – you don't get any more authentic or knowledgeable than that! EACH STEP YOU TAKE REVEALS A NEW HORIZON The BTEC in Performing Arts is a twoyear programme consisting of 720 guided learning hours split across multiples units. The structure of the qualification is in keeping with current industry practice, university teaching and assessment methodology. The completion of an extensive portfolio showcases learners' skills and allows for large-scale projects whilst providing a holistic learning experience. The assessments enable learners to demonstrate valuable skills such as analysis, planning, organisation and critical thinking in the context of developing practical outcomes. The curriculum embodies the three fundamental strands of the performing arts - dancing, singing and drama. Students are not required to be competent in all three genres and they can opt to study one genre as their chosen subject, giving flexibility to the course. Students experience the creativity of developing their own pieces, along with rehearsal

Those are the 'nuts n' bolts', but to understand the passion, joy, and commitment, listening to what the students say is important. Rohan comments: "When I started the BTEC Performing Arts course, I was so excited to be able to study a subject that was not offered anywhere else, and it was so cool that I could take an A-level subject that was also my passion. Over the course of the first two terms, I have learnt and gained so much experience and knowledge of the industry. I love our diverse timetable with a variety of all our teachers so that we can get experience from multiple people who have recently worked in the industry. I am excited to continue the course and work towards entering the performing arts industry in the future."

Jam-packed with hit after hit, it's undoubtedly the best pop album released in the last year “Fellow student Alice agrees, saying: "I have truly enjoyed the BTEC Performing Arts course this year. It has allowed me to develop my learning in all areas of the performing arts. My teachers have been excellent throughout, guiding me and enhancing my skills. The course has not only developed my skills in performing arts but also time management and organisational skills, which are essential for me for further education after Sixth Form.

The course itself has enabled me to branch out of my comfort zone and has expanded my horizons when it comes to the performing arts industry. It is the perfect course for any aspiring performer." WHERE WORDS FAIL, MUSIC SPEAKS This authenticity and knowledge have come from over a quarter of a century of study and work, with Lisa and Johnny just as successful today as they were back in the 1990s. Steps, for instance, is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, which is an incredible feat. "That's very exciting," Lisa says. "And I think one of the reasons we're enjoying this international success all over again is that it's still the five original members of Steps – it's still the group that all of our fans know. "Also, we've always had dance routines for each of our songs, and dance is universal. It doesn't matter if we speak a different language to our audiences, we can all dance together, so I think that has been a big part of our success story. "We're also very inclusive – we have what we call an open-door policy – and want everybody to feel good, be inspired by our success story and listen to music. In the current circumstances, music and Steps can offer hope and escapism, as well as just plain happiness. For the duration of a single, album or concert, it's possible to forget everything else that's going on in the world and simply have a good time." When Lisa talks about the Steps success story, which she believes her students can emulate, she means success too! The new album, 'What the Future Holds', went it at No.1 on the UK iTunes Charts, No. 2 in the UK Pop Charts, No.3 in Australia, No.5 in Indonesia, there's a long list. Steps have remained true to their own creative and entertainment philosophy on the album, recording a perfect collection of pop that is very possibly Steps’ finest album to date. Jam-packed with hit after hit, it's undoubtedly the best pop album released in the last year. And it's come at just the right time; if ever we needed an uplifting album full of catchy songs, it's now. Ahead of the album's release, Steps released the title track as a single, a dark, edgy song written by Sia, one of the leading singer-songwriters in the music world today, and it debuted at No. 10 on the UK Singles Download Chart.

It's about time that singing and dancing were put on the school curriculum. It's not just the recording studio where Steps have been busy, though. They are rehearsing for a new UK tour in November/ December this year, something Lisa is really looking forward to. "I love touring. I'm a performer at heart. I've been dancing since the age of three, on the stage from probably the age of five; all I ever wanted to do was perform. That's why I understand my students. All they want to do is perform. It makes them happy because they can express themselves. It gives them a creative outlet. For me, I say time and time again that I'm blessed that my dreams came true. “I worked hard, though, including becoming a qualified teacher of dance when I trained with Italia Conti. And with Steps, we were on the club circuit for very little money in the early days – it was the love of performing, and all of the hard work has been worth it." Steps are playing around 25 dates in total across the UK and Ireland; they are playing some venues twice because tickets for the first shows sold out virtually overnight. "I think people need live entertainment – they need to have that creativity and that happiness. That's why we do it, to make people happy." CREATIVITY IS INTELLIGENCE HAVING FUN The performing arts play a hugely significant role in helping children to develop on all levels. Educationalists are increasingly emphasising the importance of 'emotional intelligence’, and while the performing arts allow youngsters to develop creative passions, they simultaneously teach them language and communication skills, helping them to communicate effectively with others with confidence. These are vital skills in every area of life.

Creativity is vital to being human - society, industry, science all require the spark of creativity to move forward. Dance, singing, acting and the many other performing arts allow that creative spark to be born and take shape. Without that initial spark, society cannot move forward. If for no other reason, then nurturing creativity is the core reason why the performing arts are essential. What's more, the performing arts industry is still growing, while many other industries are shrinking. So it's an increasingly attractive career path to those with talent and a truckload of passion! And that's why DPA has quickly become so important on the Dubai educational landscape. "I feel so humbled and grateful," Lisa says. "To be able to come into work every morning and see all of our students and the community we've created is amazing. It's really rewarding to help children benefit from the same kind of training that Johnny and I were so privileged to enjoy.

The BTEC in Performing Arts is a two-year programme consisting of 720 guided learning hours split across multiples units "We started slowly, introducing the LAMDA and Trinity Musical Theatre examinations. And to expand on that and to be teaching BTEC five days a week is wonderful. There has been a lot of interest in our BTEC, and I think it's a great addition to the region, she concludes."

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DPA, PLEASE EMAIL: info@DubaiPerformingArts.com or call the DPA team on: +971 56 173 7545

58 Sports

ISP LAUNCHES A FOOTBALL SCHOOL PROGRAMME IN SPAIN WITH VILLARREAL THE FOOTBALL PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME, WHICH IS MANAGED BY NEW UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE CHAMPIONS, VILLARREAL, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SPAIN-BASED ISP SCHOOL, LAUDE THE BRITISH SCHOOL OF VILA-REAL, WILL ENABLE STUDENTS PASSIONATE ABOUT FOOTBALL TO IMPROVE THEIR GAME, BY JOINING THE VILLARREAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY. AS PART OF THE FOOTBALL PROGRAMME, ISP STUDENTS CAN STUDY IN SPAIN FOR ONE SCHOOL TERM (THREE MONTHS) OR A FULL ACADEMIC YEAR (10 MONTHS).

he Football Player Development Programme, which is managed by new UEFA Europa League Champions, Villarreal, in partnership with Spain-based ISP School, Laude The British School of VilaReal, will enable students passionate about football to improve their game, by joining the Villarreal Football Academy. As part of the football programme, ISP students can study in Spain for one school term (three months) or a full academic year (10 months). “We are delighted with the Villarreal Football Academy partnership and happy that we are able to offer this unique opportunity to our ISP students in the Middle East. The Football Player Development Programme in Spain is an invaluable cultural experience and an amazing learning opportunity for ISP students. They have the ability to learn from the professional team at the Villarreal Football Academy, and experience the high-quality International education provided at Laude The British School of Vila-Real,” said Bharat Mansukhani, Managing Director – ISP Middle East.

Students will access an international education at an ISP School, while engaged in a football training programme with the Villarreal Football Academy

The Football Player Development Programme is open to students between the ages of 12 and 18

The Football Player Development Programme is open to students between the ages of 12 and 18 from ISP schools in the UAE and Qatar. These include: Aspen Heights British School and Reach British School in Abu Dhabi, The Aquila School and Nibras International School in Dubai, and Park House English School and The Hamilton International School in Doha. “Villarreal FC’s Football Player Development Programme strives to develop excellent players but equally excellent students. We are delighted to partner locally with Laude The British School of Vilarreal and globally with ISP Schools. They are at the forefront of international education,” shared Juan Anton, Head of the International Department at Villarreal FC. “Our school has been working closely with the Villarreal Football Club for many years now. This experience has been built into the design of the Football Player Development Programme. We are confident it is one of the best football and schooling programmes in the world. We welcome students from our ISP Schools in the Middle East to join us and experience this for themselves,” said Rhian Cross, Headteacher, Laude The British School of Vila-real. ISP strives to ensure a student’s learning journey includes chances to experience learning outside of the classroom and connect with other ISP students across the world. As a global group of schools, their students benefit from being part of a wider international community, which provides many additional learning and cultural opportunities. The Football Player Development Programme is one such opportunity.

For more information about the Football Player Development Programme, please visit: https://admission.laudebsv.com/en/villarreal-football-club To find out more about ISP, please visit: www.internationalschoolspartnership.com

Sports

IT TAKES BALANCE TO BE A GOOD GYMNAST What does it mean to be a gymnast, one of those people who push their bodies to the outer limits to be able to demonstrate feats of flexibility, strength, coordination and grace that at times seem almost superhuman? Well, first of all, a gymnast, or any athlete for that matter, is someone who understands the principles of training and commitment and proceeds systematically. Hannah Mohammed, a 16-year-old gymnast who goes to JESS (Jumeirah English Speak School), began training nine years ago and is a level eight gymnast at Aspire Gymnastics Dubai. But it’s not only the hard work that makes a good athlete; it’s finding the right balance too, as Hannah explains: “Due to my IGCSEs, right now I train for seven hours a week. However, I usually put in 10 hours a week, and my training days are pretty regimented. “Every Saturday, I get up at around 8.00 am and start to prepare for my training sessions at 11.00 am. I tend to wake up early so that I can do some schoolwork before setting off.” Of course, food is a vital energy source for any athlete, and Hannah is no exception, enjoying a healthy, filling breakfast that will provide fuel for her four-hour training session. “This always includes carbohydrates, fats and protein, such as eggs with toast and a smoothie,” she says. “During my training, I do all four Artistic gymnastics events, as well as conditioning work. After training, I have a light snack in the car, such as fruit for a quick source of energy, and my lunch consists of a substantial source of protein.”

It’s all about that ‘balance’, not only on the beam but in life

During my training, I do all four Artistic gymnastics events, as well as conditioning work Hannah also has a physiotherapy session every few works, usually on the evenings following Saturday training, to look after her neck and back. While gymnastics is a non-contact, very graceful sport, it has one of the highest injury rates, with almost 100,000 female gymnasts alone injured each year.

PUPILS SWIM INTO SUCCESS AT SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DUBAI Academic and sporting excellence go hand-in-hand at Swiss International School Dubai, the emirate’s first bilingual International Baccalaureate School. It is now offering its growing cohort of future global citizens the chance to join a new elite Swim Academy.

Lessons take place in the school’s prestigious Olympic-sized swimming pool Sponsored by world-renowned sports brand Speedo, the Al Jadaf-located school already offers classes as part of the national Speedo Swim Squads scheme. However, the new deal will take pupils from being strong, confident swimmers to elite athlete level. There are no additional fees for joining this elite sporting scheme, but pupils must show commitment to the schedule and programme.

It is, therefore, vital to take care of the body while training and performing. “If I do not have physiotherapy,” Hannah continues, “I usually finish off schoolwork or do some revision on a Saturday evening, and get myself organised for the week ahead. I aim to have a minimum of eight hours of sleep, as it is essential for recovery after training and is needed for the school day ahead.” It’s all about that ‘balance’, not only on the beam but in life. And this requires passion and dedication, doing whatever it takes to be the best you can be. Hannah underlines this by concluding: “I also take part in Athletics at Ultimate Athletics to improve my lower body strength and my speed, which are fitness components essential for gymnastics. My athletics sessions last an hour every Sunday after school.”

Sports

DUBAI STUDENTS JOIN FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT REVOLUTION FAIRGREEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL IS THE FIRST SCHOOL IN DUBAI TO INTRODUCE A REVOLUTIONARY, DATA-DRIVEN FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME, A MOVEMENT SCREENING AND REMEDIATION SYSTEM TO PROMOTE OPTIMAL PHYSICAL WELL-BEING FOR ITS STUDENTS. FAIRGREEN IS LAUNCHING THIS IN DUBAI FOR SEPTEMBER 2021 THROUGH A NEWLY MINTED PARTNERSHIP WITH FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT SYSTEMS UK (FMS UK), LEADERS IN PROVIDING NEURO-DEVELOPMENTAL SEQUENCING TO PERFECT FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT IN ELITE ATHLETES, INCLUDING THOSE PLAYING IN PREMIER LEAGUE FOOTBALL AND THE NBA, MILITARY PERSONNEL, AND STUDENTS.

Fairgreen International School is the first to introduce the groundbreaking Functional Movement initiative used by Premier League football and NBA athletes

uilt specifically for schools to enable physical education teachers to screen students for movement efficiency to ensure they have a good foundation of movement quality, the Movement Patterns programme is a tool used to identify and mitigate poorly developed or maintained movement patterns among all PE students, which potentially make gross motor skills or specific sports skills difficult. Using cutting-edge software, the programme provides specific remediation plans to help these students retrain the body and, importantly, the brain to improve movement efficiency and reestablish sound movement patterns. Fairgreen will pilot the Movement

Patterns programme among students in Grades 3-5, eventually rolling it out to all students in Grades 3-12. The programme will provide these students with a personalised development pathway that supports balance, mobility and postural control. “By developing correct movement habits in their formative years, students will have a more positive association with physical activity, which improves self-confidence and ultimately sets them on a more active path for the rest of their lives,” says Daniel Walker, Fairgreen Athletic Director. “At Fairgreen, student well-being is at the heart of everything we do. By working with the FMS UK team and their fantastic screening programme, we

will be better able to support our students’ physical well-being and prepare them to move more regularly with confidence. Our students will develop a legacy of physical wellbeing that will have a long-term positive impact on their lives.” Peter Bowler, CEO, FMS UK, comments: “Fairgreen International School is progressive and forwardthinking, hence a perfect partner for FMS UK. By signing on as the first school in Dubai to incorporate functional movement technology to support their students, Fairgreen shows sincere investment in the FMS UK mission to support children to develop good movement habits that will benefit them for life.”

To learn more about Fairgreen International School, visit www.fairgreen.ae To learn more about FMS UK, visit www.functionalmovement.uk.com/fms-schools

64 Excellence In Higher Education

See the World Differently?

YOU BELONG AT SAE - THE HOME OF CREATIVES ACCORDING TO OECD’S REPORT ON ‘FUTURE OF EDUCATION AND SKILLS 2030’, EDUCATION IS RAPIDLY EVOLVING INTO A SHARED ENDEAVOUR — A COLLABORATIVE INVESTMENT TO WELCOME THE NEXT GENERATION INTO THE CIRCLE AND FORTIFY THEM AS HARBINGERS OF THE FUTURE.

ncluding and encouraging creative education allows the youth to know themselves and each other as culture-makers — people endowed with the tremendous powers of the imagination, regardless of which field or industry they choose to master themselves in. Just technical, conventional education is no longer enough to ensure job readiness. It goes beyond the traditional classroom delivery. They need to immerse themselves in everything they learn now to apply it later. Learning how to use ‘Design Thinking’ and ‘Problem Solving’ are the skills that are expected to be seen in the next-generation changemakers. They need to see the world differently. The changemakers of tomorrow with an inclination for non-traditional careers, wanting to break away from the usual and carve a niche for themselves in the creative media industries, are the ones that belong at SAE: Creative Media Institute. “Recent studies have shown that creative industries are one of the most rapidly growing sectors representing great economic potential. At SAE, we are committed to nurturing creative talent by providing a culture and

Take a virtual tour

environment that will help them to adapt and adopt 21st-century skills required in our workforce today,” - Jan Horn, Managing Director at SAE Institute, Dubai. In April 2021, HH Sheikh Mohammad announced on behalf of the Executive Council of Dubai: “We launched a strategic programme to make Dubai a global capital of the creative economy. We aim to increase the number of creative firms from 8,000 to 15,000 in Dubai and creative professionals from 70,000 to 150,000 within the next five years.” Furthermore, the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi published an article on 6 June 2021, which stated: “The Culture and Creative Industries are key drivers of social and economic growth and diversification in Abu Dhabi. It is one of the fastest-growing economic sectors worldwide, and globally these fields generate annual revenues of $2.25 trillion, provide 30 million jobs and are predicted to make up some 10% of global GDP. To capitalise on this growth, Abu Dhabi has invested significantly

and strategically in excess of AED 30 billion to create thriving Culture and Creative Industries in the emirate.” Such momentum in the economy is bound to increase the demand for talented graduates to satisfy the rapidly growing needs of this expanding and lucrative industry - and SAE is gearing up to be a critical source of supply to match this demand. SAE is the world’s leading educator in creative media industries, established in Sydney, Australia, in 1963 as a school for sound and audio engineering. From the humble Sydney studio beginnings, SAE today spans the globe with 47 campuses in 23 countries. SAE has evolved over the years and offers Bachelor Degree and Executive Education qualifications in:      

Audio and Sound Production 3D Animation Graphic Design and Visual Communication Filmmaking Game Development

All the offered programmes follow the founding principles of SAE – high quality, industry-focused, practical and theoretical education for creatively talented individuals. In Dubai, SAE has been catering to the UAE market since 2005, and our student community continues to thrive, diversify and grow. We insist all creative aspirants to come visit us at our Dubai Campus SAE constantly strives to deliver exceptional programmes in world-class facilities. We ensure that students receive an outstanding education, internationally recognised qualifications, and industry-relevant 21-century skills, giving them the edge in a competitive environment. SAE also caters to nurturing young talent (aged between 10 to 17 years) through our Creative Youth Academy.

It comprises weekly (intensive) short courses as well as biweekly boot camps during Spring, Summer and Winter breaks on topics such as 2D and 3D Animation, Game Development, Music Production, DJ-ing, Graphic Design, Filmmaking, Photography and more. These sessions allow students to experience the world of creative media and how they can tap into their creative skills and talents to not only

build an impressive portfolio of creative work, but also to have fun while using state-ofthe-art studios, equipment and software. This year’s Summer Camps begin on 11 July 2021. SAE Institute is not an average Higher Education Institute. We understand and recognise the potential of creative minds and are committed to providing them with the platform to turn their passion into a lucrative profession.

ADMISSIONS OPEN FOR: September 2021 intake for Bachelor Degrees July, August and September ShortCourses Summer Camps

Visit: www.dubai.sae.edu or call 800-SAE for more information! We are the home of creatives - a home where all the minds who see the world differently belong.

Excellence In Higher Education

Five Factors Aspiring Medical Students Should Know MANY MEDICAL STUDENTS FROM THE UAE LOOKING AT INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION OPTIONS WILL HAVE FOUND THEMSELVES NAVIGATING THE OVERSEAS MEDICAL SCHOOL APPLICATION PROCESS.

ob Ryan, Dean of Admissions at St. George’s University, Grenada, agrees that for UAE hopefuls, “selecting the best medical school option is not an easy task and needs careful consideration.” To assist those UAE students currently contemplating studying overseas as a stepping-stone to a career in medicine, Bob Ryan offers the following guidance, providing an honest and holistic checklist of factors that students should consider before making any final decision: 1. Graduate Success You’ve probably known of several great medical schools for most of your life. Programmes create that name recognition by developing a history of educating successful graduates. A successful alumni network is a great measure of a successful medical school; for example, St. George’s University has contributed over 18,000 physicians to the global physician workforce, with students, graduates, and faculty from over 150 countries. They have practised in every state in the US, as well as in more than 50 countries. Look for a university with a storied reputation when it comes to graduating physicians to the global workforce. 2. The Location No aspiring medical student should be too picky when it comes to location. Gaining acceptance to a quality medical school is tough. That said, you can certainly keep location in the back of your mind if you find yourself s with multiple options. The location also comes into play later on. Some medical students already know where they want to practice one day. They may have a better chance of securing a residency in that area if they’re able to meet physicians through volunteer work or clinical rotations.

This means it’s also important to look into where schools’ clinical rotations take place - some programmes offer a variety of options for students. Most importantly, medical schools with multiple global locations may also appeal to UAE-based students due to the international education they will be exposed to. An array of curricula, residency programmes or study placement options in various countries would undoubtedly provide a well-rounded education and solid options for embarking on a medical career at home in the UAE or abroad. 3. USMLE Step 1 Performance With many physicians from the UAE educated under US educational frameworks and many hospitals operating under US-led best practice guidelines, most will tell you the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) Step 1 is the most critical test they took during medical school. This is why it’s essential that young people who want to study medicine in the US verify the programmes they’re considering and adequately prepare for this exam series. It’s wise to look into pass rates and average scores across different programmes. Keep in mind that, according to performance data released by USMLE, 97% of examinees from US and Canadian schools taking Step 1 for the first time in 2019 passed. That’s a quality standard you would want to see from international schools as well. 4. Ability to Pursue Personal Interests It’s easy to chiefly focus on entry requirements and residency placements when comparing medical schools. While those are important factors to consider, students shouldn’t forget about their personal interests. Some schools offer opportunities to further certain passions through organisations, events, and more.

Those can be valuable for students. How would students ever grow as humans and as doctors if they read the same books and learned the same things without also going forward via their personal interests? 5. Financial Stability Tuition and fees are probably on your mind - and rightly so, especially in these times of financial uncertainty. While cost alone shouldn’t determine where you attend school, it’s certainly worth considering. And keep in mind that evaluating the cost of any programme should include numerous factors. When it comes to medical school, you really do get what you pay for. Additional Pointers for Students from the UAE  International students are usually exempt from the US admission requirements, but they will be expected to meet English language requirements if English is not their principal language.  Visiting campuses may not be possible, so do contact the schools you are interested in to see if they offer virtual tours.  Speaking to other students who’ve gone through the process may prove helpful, and they’ll be able to offer perspective on what their experience at that school was like.

Bob Ryan, Dean of Admissions at St. George’s University, Grenada

Excellence In Higher Education

MOHAMED BIN ZAYED UNIVERSITY FOR HUMANITIES TO LAUNCH A UNIQUE VR SIMULATION EXPERIENCE The Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities has announced it will launch a unique educational experience that simulates Virtual Reality (VR) as installations on a wide range of lecture halls on campus.

MBRU LAUNCHES FIRST DOCTORATE PROGRAMME IN DUBAI TO DRIVE SUPPORT OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) has taken another giant stride towards realising its vision to become a global hub for innovative and integrated healthcare education and research, with the launch of a fully sponsored PhD in Biomedical Sciences – the first doctorate programme at MBRU.

PhD graduate students will get the opportunity to work closely with a diverse and talented research faculty, and the programme aims

to match a student’s research interest with an appropriate faculty member from day one. Research work will take place in MBRU’s newly equipped, state-ofthe-art laboratories as well as the MBRU Biomedical Research Centre supported by Al Jalila Foundation. Research will focus on areas of genetics of developmental diseases, reproduction, cancer biology, diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, and infectious diseases, pharmacology, lncRNA, stem cell biology, and tissue engineering.

A fully sponsored PhD programme for graduate students

SPOTLIGHT ON ARAB AND ISLAMIC CIVILISATION SCHOLARS ON CAMPUS

The project aims to introduce the most prominent scholars in Arab and Islamic civilisation who have left a significant impact on humanity, including Al-Biruni, Al-Khwarizmi, Ibn Hazm, Ibn Sina, Thabit bin Qurra and others. Dr Khaled Salem Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of the university, said: “The Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities is keen to provide students and graduates with 21st-century skills to ensure their ability to continue their education at every opportunity. The university has an advanced digital educational system capable of providing students with a smart educational experience to keep pace with digital development in the educational field and achieve the UAE Centennial Vision 2071.”

NEW MEDIA ACADEMY LAUNCHES REGION’S FIRST VIRTUAL CAMPUS ON A SPACE STATION! The New Media Academy has announced the launch of the Middle East’s first virtual campus that will deliver an unrivalled learning experience. The campus leverages state-ofthe-art immersive technology to give students unparalleled access to top-notch quality education, allowing them to develop innovative content. The campus is a custom New Media Academy-branded Space Station in orbit around Mars. Users will be given the experience to transport down to the surface of Mars to explore. The Academy has developed its new virtual campus built upon ENGAGE, the

multi-awarding winning platform from industry-leading development studio Immersive VR Education (IVRE). The virtual campus is a first step in the New Media Academy’s quest to design an unprecedented learning experience featuring immersive technologies.

FREE OF CHARGE MATHS TUITION FOR STUDENTS PLANNING FOR UNIVERSITY The University of Birmingham Dubai is offering free of charge impartial maths tuition sessions to support pupils that may have experienced disruption throughout the last year of the pandemic. The tuition is free of charge for students and can be accessed alone as private support or via schools as a group activity and followed up by live online tutorials. The course covers topics to the level of a typical Year 1 student at the University of Birmingham and is designed to help the transition from school to university. To find out more about the programme, please visit: https://canvas.bham.ac.uk/courses/52463

APPEAR IN THE BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE BOOK A NURSERY, SCHOOL OR UNIVERSITY REVIEW. EMAIL US HERE

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Excellence In Higher Education

Abu Dhabi University Tops UAE’s Employability Rankings ABU DHABI UNIVERSITY (ADU) HAS BEEN RANKED BEST FOR EMPLOYABILITY IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AND THIRD IN THE ARAB WORLD, ACCORDING TO THE GLOBAL EMPLOYABILITY RANKING AND SURVEY 2020 (GEURS), A STUDY PUBLISHED BY FRENCH CONSULTANCY EMERGING AND TIMES HIGHER EDUCATION.

he survey provides unique data and insights into the strategies that could be put in place to meet future training challenges and the leading indicators of employability. The worldwide ranking gives a picture of the decisive factors - the drivers - behind recruiters' choice of best universities. This year, 9,000 recruiters from more than 22 countries voted to rate the employability performance of 6,000 international institutions. These worldwide rankings demonstrate ADU's focus on academic quality, its strategy to meet future training challenges, and its employability performance. Despite the increasing number of universities considered in this year's report, and since entering the Global Employability Survey and Ranking, ADU held its position in the top 160 universities globally. Professor Waqar Ahmad, Chancellor of the Abu Dhabi University, commented: "We are thrilled to have been ranked the best University for employability in the UAE and the top 160 worldwide. This new ranking is a testament to the quality of our strategic investments in teaching and learning and the exceptional role our global faculty play to upskill our students in the classroom and beyond. These remarkable results drive us to maintain our pursuit of excellence and to harness the collective talents of our students to enhance the University's reputation further and contribute to the economy and society in and beyond the United Arab Emirates. Future work skills and practical problem solving are central parts of our teaching and support our graduates to be ready for the challenges of work. "

Abu Dhabi University ranks third in the region and among the top 160 in the world Professor Waqar Ahmad added: "Above all, we want to help our students achieve their full academic potential and provide them with the skills and qualifications for productive careers, as well as support their personal growth as well-rounded and productive individuals. Abu Dhabi University's success stems from our clarity of vision and values. We regard students and faculty as a community of scholars pursuing knowledge together, supported by great professional staff and excellent estate and facilities." Abu Dhabi University strives to provide students with cutting-edge and advanced programmes strongly aligned with market demands, practical career advice, handson laboratory and project experience, industry-specific training opportunities, and exposure to showcase their qualifications. The University continues to deliver an unparalleled education experience and vibrant student life that

Abu Dhabi University has graduated over 21,000 alumni since its inception

will equip students with the competencies necessary to stand out in a competitive employment market. The University is accredited nationally and internationally and is a UAE leader for prestigious programme-level accreditations. Among over 50 undergraduate and postgraduate programs are new programs in laboratory medicine, human genetics, nutrition and dietetics, biomedical engineering, software engineering, industrial engineering, exciting opportunities to specialise in robotics and artificial intelligence, and programs in media production. The University's School of Business houses among the most highly regarded MBA programmes in the region. As part of its employability strategy, ADU's Employability and Alumni Relations Office (EARO) offers students exceptional career services to prepare them to enter the workforce. The EARO also facilitates contact between industry professionals and recruiters seeking young graduates from the pool of talented students at ADU.

To find out more about ADU's Employability and Alumni Relations Office and its initiatives, please visit: www.adu.ac.ae

Professor Waqar Ahmad, Chancellor of the Abu Dhabi University

Excellence In Higher Education

Education, Experience and Employment – the 3Es of Business Education

The higher education sector is getting increasingly competitive and, primarily student-driven, it faces the daunting challenge of enhancing the student experience, supporting student engagement and measuring student satisfaction. The continuous increase in tuition fees in various undergraduate programmes demand greater value for money, thus pushing the sector to design better services for students. This calls for a unique blend of academic rigour beyond the classroom academic experience. This student experience encompasses the many different aspects of student life: academic and intellectual; social and emotional; and the growth of cultural, political, sporting and artistic interests.

ho what makes SP Jain's BBA programme unique and different? SP Jain's BBA students study in not one but several of the world's leading business capitals – Singapore, Mumbai, Dubai and Sydney. This is undoubtedly one of the most distinguishing aspects of the programme. In each city, our students have exclusive opportunities to experience diverse cultures, study international business practices, network with business executives and community leaders, pursue internships, have fun and make friends from all over the world, do internships and seek employment opportunities postprogramme completion. Exposure to different countries, cultures and business centres makes our programme and, in turn, our students truly global. It is no wonder then that every year, our BBA programme attracts students (and faculty) from all over the world.

Having lived and studied in a minimum of three of the world's top business cities, SP Jain students have a unique advantage when it comes to competing for a global job. At each location, they have had opportunities to pursue projects, participate in out-of-class activities, and undergo internships that have made them very relevant and attractive to leading companies in the respective locations. Imagine graduating with a portfolio that includes several global experiences, including a minimum of three internships. As any other globally acclaimed institution, SP Jain has always stayed at the forefront of honouring merit. Thus, the school's policy in awarding scholarship is guided by student's academic merit and overall scholarly view of the world we are in. Summing up, quality education, unforgettable experience and culmination into a rewarding career stands as the essence of SP Jain’s undergraduate programs!

SP Jain’s BBA students study in not one but several of the world’s leading business capitals

Dr Arindam Banerjee, Associate Professor and Deputy Director (Dean) – Masters Programs & Director – Student Recruitment (UG Programs)

Excellence In Higher Education

HOW US COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS CAN CHANGE LIVES IJAAZ JACKARIA, WHO GRADUATED FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO, WHERE HE MAJORED IN PHILOSOPHY AND MINORED IN PHYSICS AND MIDDLE EASTERN STUDIES, TAKES US THROUGH WHAT CAN BE A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE – WINNING A US SCHOLARSHIP. HE IS CURRENTLY A SENIOR EDUCATION CONSULTANT AT HALE EDUCATION GROUP AND HEAD OF THE HALE SCHOLARS PROGRAMME.

Since 2018, the Hale Scholars Programme has helped ten students, including students from Abu Dhabi, Palestine, Mauritius, and Kenya

13 March 13 2015 5.30 am (Mauritian time) I am usually not an early riser, but that day was an exception. That day was a special day. Squinting at my laptop screen - pretty sure there was no blue light filter then - I read carefully: ‘Congratulations on your admissions to the University of Chicago. The Committee on College Aid is pleased to award you $71,810 in the University of Chicago need-based financial aid…’ Woah, that’s big news! To be honest, I did not know exactly what to feel. Back then, I had no idea how my admissions from the University of Chicago would change my life in so many amazing ways. 7 April 2021 9.13 am (Dubai time) I got into Dartmouth!! *sprinkles* *blind monkey* emojis I can’t believe it, omg! Ivy Leagueeeeee! I gazed at the WhatsApp message my student Sonia just sent me, and I was so proud of her. She did it! She is going to an Ivy League university with a full-ride scholarship! The US Dream So many people dream of studying in the United States. With the breathtaking college campuses, latest research facilities, distinguished faculty, and a flexible education pathway, there is much to envy from a US college education. However, very often, there is one single barrier that crushes that dream: cost. Attending college in the United States is very expensive - among the most expensive education in the entire world. A bachelor’s degree lasts four years and costs around $300,000 in total on average. To many students, this is way beyond what their families can afford. The good news, though, is that many US universities are aware of the financial barrier when it comes to college education, and they offer generous financial aid to those who cannot afford it.

However, for international students, only a select few universities will award financial aid, and it is very competitive since universities have limited funds allocated for deserving international students. These primarily include the Ivy Leagues and schools like MIT, Stanford, CalTech, University of Chicago, Vanderbilt University, and Amherst College.

A bachelor’s degree lasts four years and costs around $300,000 in total on average What Does it Take to Secure Financial Aid from a US college? Colleges look for talented applicants, for students who can add diversity to their campuses -be it through their outstanding academic performances, impressive community involvement, national or international entrepreneurial endeavours, spectacular artistic expressions, or anything that the student did that shows the admissions counsellors that they will enrich the college community. If a university accepts such a student, then it will make sure that they do not have to worry about money universities will fulfil the financial needs of those students. And that can cover the total cost of attendance: tuition fees, room and board, travelling, insurance, living expenses, etc. The Impact of those Scholarships I cannot put into words how much a scholarship means to us students who cannot afford a US education; literally, for us, it means the world. And it is not just about the money. It is about all the doors that are opened as well: experiencing a new country, learning with people from across the globe, grabbing academic and professional opportunities.

Six years ago, in 2015, I was the only Mauritian student who received a fullride scholarship from the University of Chicago. Today, I am an Educational Consultant working for Hale Education Group in Dubai. One of the most personally enriching parts of my job is to help deserving students apply to US universities and secure a scholarship. Hale Scholars Programme I am currently leading the Hale Scholars Programme; every year, we look for a small group of talented, high-achieving students from around the world. We provide them free of charge the whole US college counselling package: applying to US colleges, reviewing essays, test prep, applying for scholarships, etc. Since 2018, the Hale Scholars Programme has helped ten students, including students from Abu Dhabi, Palestine, Mauritius, and Kenya. This past year, I have personally mentored Sonia, one of our Hale Scholars from Nigeria. As a mentor, I could relate to her in so many ways since I was in the same situation when I was a student - whether managing the anxiety that comes with the application process, dealing with college rejections, or keeping hope that things will work out in the end. Today, after much hard work and perseverance on Sonia’s part, she got an amazing acceptance with a fullride scholarship at Dartmouth College, where she will be studying engineering. Hale is also partnering with the Syrian Youth Empowerment Initiative, a non-profit organisation based in the US but with mentors across the world. We share our resources and expertise with SYE Initiative who works with Syrian refugees and youth in conflict zones, including Syria and Iraq. At Hale, we empower students seeking to realise their maximum personal, academic, and professional potential through the pursuit of US higher education. By helping a student in need achieve their dream to go study in the US, we are grooming a future leader, innovator, or thinker who will give back to their own community and empower other youths to make a difference.

76 Our World

STAR INTERNATIONAL MIRDIF LAUNCHES ITS ‘OCEAN AMBASSADORS’ PROGRAMME

STAR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL MIRDIF, DUBAI’S COMMUNITY-ORIENTED SCHOOL, SITUATED IN THE HEART OF MIRDIF, RECENTLY ANNOUNCED THE LAUNCH OF ITS FIRST-OF-A-KIND ‘OCEAN AMBASSADORS’ PROGRAMME, WITH THE AIM OF EDUCATING STUDENTS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF OCEAN CONSERVATION FROM A YOUNG AGE. THIS INITIATIVE WAS INSPIRED BY THE SCHOOL’S RECENT ‘DIVE FOR DEBRIS’ DRIVE, WHERE STAFF TOOK PART IN CLEANING THE ARABIAN GULF FROM LITTER, WHICH WAS FURTHER REINFORCED BY DUBAI 92’S ‘UNDERWATER GARDEN’ COMPETITION.

A passionate crew from the school’s certified divers took part in the ‘Dive for Debris’ cleanup drive at Jumeirah Beach Star International School Mirdif decided to sign up its student body to the ‘Dubai 92 Cares’ competition for coral reef conservation to start a community-wide movement focused on social responsibility and environmental sustainability. A passionate crew from the school’s certified divers accompanied by Ms Gill Roberts, Principle of Star International School Mirdif, who is also a certified PADI IDC Staff Instructor, took part in the ‘Dive for Debris’ clean-up drive at Jumeirah Beach a few weeks back. The initiative received a lot of praise from the school’s community and its efforts to cleanse Dubai’s coral reefs and preserve marine life for future generations. At the conclusion of the dive, Star International Mirdif’s scuba diving team had discovered a wide variety of debris, with a number of items accounting for the majority of the ocean litter, such as water bottle caps, cigarette butts and covid masks. The participating staff also ensured that they shared their insights with students upon their return, where pupils were tasked with analysing these results against global data to determine any commonalities.

The school was challenged with designing an artificial coral reef that could be created and placed in the Indian Ocean off the Dibba coastline

Furthermore, as part of Star International School Mirdif’s participation in Dubai’s 92’s ‘Underwater Garden’ competition, the school was challenged with designing an artificial coral reef that could be created and placed in the Indian Ocean off the Dibba coastline. As such, Dubai 92 joined forces with ‘Freestyle Divers’ in Dibba, where schools raised awareness about the preservation of marine life and maintained a healthy coral ecosystem. Talking about Star International School Mirdif’s active involvement in ocean conservation, Principal Gill Roberts commented: “I believe that children need to be educators, and in

order to be an educator regarding the ocean, you need to understand how the ocean works. That is why we have launched our ‘Ocean Ambassadors’ programme where we aim to teach students from an early age about the hazards that human littering causes to marine life, and underline what they can do to help protect our oceans.” The ‘Ocean Ambassadors’ initiative will educate students about the importance and methods of keeping oceans clean and preserving marine life through extensive classroom lessons and on-field exercises, which will be held at the school’s spacious swimming pool and the Arabian Gulf.

Our World

CARTOON NETWORK CLIMATE CHAMPIONS Over the last 50 years, human activities have released sufficient quantities of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases to affect the global climate and, in doing so, the social and environmental determinants of health – clean air, safe drinking water, sufficient food and secure shelter. This, by definition, means that climate change is endangering children and threatening their futures. That’s why youngsters must understand the challenges that the planet faces. With that in mind, Cartoon Network, in tandem with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), has launched a new initiative to explain climate problems in ways that kids can understand. We spoke to Vanessa Brookman, Head of Kids, WarnerMedia EMEA, to find out more.

EDUAE: I understand ‘Cartoon Network Climate Champions’ was developed in tandem with WWF – how did this come about, and how has it been developed? Vanessa: Climate change is a fundamental issue impacting our lives today, and its effect will be felt most by the younger generation. As a brand that provides original content for kids, we want to inspire them to become advocates by taking on small challenges that can make a world of difference to the health of our planet, the Earth they will inherit. Our partnership with WWF, one of the world’s leading independent conservation organisations, was unveiled alongside the campaign on Earth Day 2021 (22 April). Eventually, the Cartoon Network Climate Champions campaign was launched across the entire EMEA region. We teamed up with WWF to provide simple and accessible explainer videos about the issues behind the climaterelated headlines in ways that kids can understand. EDUAE: Children always learn best when they are having

fun – so can you give an example of the daily Cartoon Network challenges that will motivate them to make changes that will positively impact the environment? Vanessa: Cartoon Network’s brand-new Climate Champions microsite acts as the campaign hub with challenges, quizzes, games and videos championing sustainability. It is also promoted on the Cartoon Network channel. The specially designed daily challenges, tested by kids for kids, are crafted to inspire and motivate young people to make changes at home, at school and in their local communities, positively impacting the environment. A real-time map demonstrates how the Climate Champions are making a difference and will provide ongoing insights and data points into the myriad ways kids are engaging in the topic from country to country. Some of the daily challenges include: re-using and decorating leftover bottles and food containers to make imaginative plant pots; taking just one napkin tissue to reduce waste; making pet tug

We teamed up with WWF to provide simple and accessible explainer videos about the issues behind the climate-related headlines in ways that kids can understand toys using old clothes; and buying oddly shaped fruit and veggies that might not be picked by other people. Furthermore, we have done a survey with kids across EMEA prior to the launch of the campaign. Kids in the UAE have participated in at least one climate change activity, in which 52% of them have re-used materials. Meanwhile, 49% of the kids have tried using less water and less electricity. EDUAE: How do you get feedback, and what has the response been like to date? Vanessa: As of 16 June, more than 190,000 challenges were accepted and total sign-ups of 20,227 across EMEA. As part of the campaign, Cartoon Network has also collaborated with the Digital Video team at CNN to produce a series of first-person video articles featuring young change-makers across the EMEA region to inspire the Climate Champions and motivate others to get involved. The short vignettes spotlight some of the initiatives that young Cartoon Network fans are already involved in at a grassroots level and show how they are making a difference. EDUAE: How does the Cartoon Network lead by example? What steps does it take to ensure sustainability in its own business? Vanessa: At WarnerMedia, sustainability is essential to our business and embedded in our culture. We pursue innovative green production practices and implement sustainability on our sets. Last year, 36 WarnerMedia

productions received Environmental Media Association Green Seals for their sustainability efforts. We produce content that informs and inspires audiences with compelling and entertaining stories to take action on sustainability, climate action, and environmental justice. Last year, WarnerMedia received seven EMA Award nominations and won an industry-leading three EMA Awards for achievement in environmental storytelling. We invest in programmes in the workplace that support sustainability, such as recycling and composting programmes, as well as a programme that encourages commuting to work by carpooling, walking, biking and taking public transportation.

VANESSA BROOKMAN Head of Kids, WarnerMedia EMEA We encourage our employees to take everyday actions to support a healthy planet for future generations. They are also presented with opportunities to volunteer around different green initiatives during working hours.

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Our World

HOW YOU CAN PLAY A ROLE IN CONSERVING WATER AND SAFEGUARDING OUR PLANET COMMENTARY FROM FRANCOIS FRIGAUX, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, SENSUS

“It’s no secret that the survival of our planet is intrinsically linked to the health of our ecosystems. However, in recent years, our natural world has faced challenges of epic proportions, including the adverse effects brought on by climate change, and we’re seeing our ecosystems and natural resources suffering as a result. “We can sometimes feel powerless in this struggle, but recently World Environment Day served as a timely reminder of just how impactful we can be when we come together to make a difference. Imagine the possibilities if we each committed to making just a few simple changes in our everyday lives. “Water plays perhaps one of the most integral and multifaceted roles in sustaining every aspect of our

ecosystems, environment and our very existence. One of the key steps we as individuals and as businesses can each take to help protect our precious ecosystems is to be more conscious in our consumption of water. “At Sensus, a Xylem brand, we place water at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to supporting our partners and the communities we serve in safeguarding this precious resource too. “Smart water technologies, for example, are at the forefront of this approach. They can accurately and efficiently manage, treat and distribute water to minimise losses and, in turn, create a domino effect that benefits the entire ecosystem.”

“But it’s not just businesses that can make a difference. Here are four simple but highly impactful switches you can make in your everyday life to play your part in helping to reduce unnecessary water going down the drain: 1. Turn the tap off in between rinsing when brushing your teeth, and you could save up to 200 gallons of water per month; 2. Switch the tap off during those 20 seconds when you’re scrubbing your hands with soap to help save up to six gallons per day; 3. Lather up your hair with shampoo with the tap off, and you could save up to 150 gallons of water in a month; 4. Wash your vegetables and dishes in a sink of water instead of under a running faucet to massively reduce water wastage.”

“Imagine the possibilities, if we each committed to making just a few simple changes in our everyday lives”

‘PROTECT BABY TURTLES’

Programme with Emirates Marine Environmental Group and Pampers PAMPERS IS INVESTING IN THE CONSERVATION OF A GLOBALLY CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES, BABY HAWKSBILL TURTLES (HATCHLINGS). HAWKSBILLS ARE UNIVERSALLY BELOVED CREATURES AND A VALUABLE MEMBER OF THE ARABIAN GULF MARINE ECOSYSTEM; PROTECTING THIS SPECIES IS OF GLOBAL IMPORTANCE. In partnership with Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG), the Pampers ‘Protect Baby Turtles’ programme at the P&G Dubai Mangrove Forest will comprehensively enhance nesting habitats and facilitate a safe environment for Hawksbill hatchlings, giving them the best start on their journey to the ocean. Karim El Fiqi, Pampers Vice President at Procter & Gamble, commented: “Pampers aims to give the best start in life to the babies it serves and the endangered babies who share our planet, starting with baby sea turtles. Just like the early years of a baby’s life are important to their development, the first year of a baby Hawksbill turtle’s life is also critical to their survival. We feel we can play an important role in raising awareness for the species, as well as help provide them with a safe nesting environment and one where hatchlings can move freely into the ocean.” The Hawksbill Turtle’s global population has reduced at an alarming rate. Protected under the Endangered Species Act and listed as ‘critically endangered’, the nesting population has declined by 80%, primarily due to human impact and habitat loss. It is estimated there are currently only around 8,000 nesting turtles annually. Preferring sandy beaches and coastal dunes where nesting sites are within reach, the turtles help maintain the health of marine ecosystems.

Major Ali Saqr Sultan Al Suwaidi, President of EMEG, said: “We are proud that Dubai is one of the nesting grounds for the Hawksbill. Once they reach maturity at around 20 to 35 years of age, the female will return to the coastal beaches of the P&G Mangrove Forest at Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary where they were born, to nest and lay their eggs, thus completing the circle of life. With the support of Pampers, we will be able to ensure we provide them with a protected area to nest where they can safely emerge and return to the sea.”

This initiative aligns with the UAE Environment Vision 2021, ensuring sustainable development while preserving the environment, and is the latest in a series of innovative ecological initiatives Pampers and P&G are putting their weight behind as a force for good in order to accelerate their commitment towards sustainability as well as increase community engagement for the environment. In the longer term, the programme partnership will extend to turtle satellite tagging, scientific research, and conservation awareness events. The P&G Dubai Mangrove Forest is located in the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, a United Nations globally protected reserve that has been included in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance and is being managed by EMEG.

Pampers believes in protecting every baby, and the planet they grow up in

82 Parent Corner

IS YOUR CHILD GETTING THE BEST USE OUT OF THE SCHOOL COUNSELLOR? AAKANKSHA TANGRI, FOUNDER OF RE:SET SHARES TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS.

SAY HI! It seems simple, but the first step is to ensure your child knows what a school counsellor does and who they are. Look at setting up an introductory meeting between the counsellor and your child, one perhaps even you can attend, to break the ice and work on developing a rapport and trust. It’s not easy for anyone, let alone a child, to open up to someone, which is why it’s even more important that there is a relationship between the two so that when the child does need an adult to speak to, they know who they can turn to. REACH OUT While you’ve introduced your child to their counsellor, you should also set up a time to speak to the counsellor where you can let them know if there’s anything in particular they should keep an eye out for, such as if your child needs that extra push to socialise or is anxious. The counsellor can also liaise with the child’s teachers to let them know and work together to ensure the student is on the right track, look for any changes in behaviour and that all the necessary support is given to the child. NORMALISE SEEKING HELP School counsellors we’ve talked to through our reporting at Re:Set have often said the biggest challenge they face is the stigma that comes with seeing a school counsellor. Introspect and see whether you’re carrying any biases towards support for one’s well-being and how you can unlearn it. If you incorporate conversations around mental health at home and encourage your child to reach out for support, you’ll find it’ll have a tremendous impact

on your child’s ability to name and process their emotions and to let you know when they need to speak to someone. You shouldn’t wait until something is terribly wrong to get your child some help. Regular check-ins between the child and their counsellor will help build a solid foundation for their well-being and equip them with various coping strategies. As children get older, they face a myriad of challenges such as social media comparisons and peer pressure, and the stigma often is more intense as well — the younger they start with getting support, the better it is.

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK Many schools also work with external mental health clinics to provide additional resources for the child or have existing relationships to refer children when needed. Make sure you have a conversation with the school administration or counsellor to know what measures they have in place if your child does need to seek external support. This will also allow you to know what resources are at your child’s disposal. If your child does have a mental health professional they already work with, then you can look at initiating a conversation between them and the school counsellor so that everyone is on the same page and can develop a clear strategy to work through a child’s challenges.

It’s not easy for anyone, let alone a child, to open up to someone

As children get older, they face a myriad of challenges

For more information, please visit resetyoureveryday.com or follow on Instagram: @resetyoureveryday and Twitter: @ReSet_Everyday

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Parent Corner

ENTERTAINMENT TECHNOLOGY AND ITS THREATS ON YOUNG MINDS BY DR SALIHA AFRIDI, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE LIGHTHOUSE ARABIA

any parents and educators feel helpless when thinking about how to manage their children’s technology use. It is unrealistic to think that children will not be exposed to digital devices in today’s world, especially since Covid. However, one thing that might make it easier for them is to consider the uses of the devices and limit the usage of entertainment technology and allow for educational technology. Let’s face it, most of us are not worried about our children spending hours on their devices doing multiplications. We are mostly concerned about their attention spans, their use of

social media, and their addictive behaviours to gaming. Studies have found that both technology and social media platforms can leave children, and adults, with feelings of anxiety, depression, disturbed sleep patterns, the potential for cyberbullying, and distorted body image. It is important, if not essential, for parents to consider the dangers of excessive use of entertainment technology and educate themselves and their children on how to best use their smart devices so that they are not being overly exposed to unhealthy messages while maintaining a sense of balance and mental well-being.

SO WHAT ARE SOME STEPS PARENTS CAN TAKE TOWARDS THIS? 1. Anchor yourself and your parenting in your values. If you let the latest gadget or trend drive your parenting behaviours, you will likely feel groundless and unanchored ... anxious. If you anchor yourself in your values and make your decisions from that place and be okay with not being liked by your children for a little while, you will feel more grounded as a parent and will most likely be more consistent in your parenting. Think about what type of adult you want to raise and build your parenting style around that. If your child says “everyone has Instagram,” and you agree to them having Instagram on that premise, you are basically giving them permission to “do whatever everyone else is doing.” If you explain to them that other people base their decisions on other things, and you are basing it on the science of addiction and your family values, then you are teaching them an important life lesson: how to make decisions from the inside out.

It is important, if not essential, for parents to consider the dangers of excessive use of entertainment technology 2. Before you have conversations with your children about entertainment technology, make sure you do your own homework. Know the pros and cons of entertainment technology, read about the addictive nature, be clear about why you do not want your child to engage in it yet or have limited engagement with it. If a child senses your hesitancy or lack of knowledge, they will bulldoze over you with their techsavviness and emotional manipulation. Two great websites for parents to keep up-to-date on popular traditional and social media are Commonsensemedia.com and SmartSocial.com. 3. Consider your child. There is no ‘right’ age to give a child a smartphone or access to entertainment technology. Some young children are mature, while some teens are more prone to addictive behaviours and recklessness. Just as you would when you invest in a pet, you consider whether your child is ready for such a responsibility; know your child before you hand over a device or gaming console. Is this something that they have the maturity to use responsibly?

Think about what type of adult you want to raise 4. Teach your child and stay up to date with new information. When psychologists or doctors get their licenses, they have to have a certain number of continuing education credits to maintain their license. Taking from that practice, as parents and children use technology, it would be good practice to keep up to date with your own personal continuing education on the latest apps, their pros and cons, and how to best use them. It would also be important for children to learn about digital citizenship, cyberbullying, and how to interact online. Remind them that the internet is essentially storing everything they say and do online, and once they have said it or done it online, that is placed on it, forever. Do not do anything online that you would not want your employers to know or would not want to be printed on the front page of a newspaper the next day. 5. Implement rules, and follow them yourself as much as possible. Do not be afraid to implement a digital blackout at home, such as while having dinner and an hour before they go to bed. Keep all devices out of the bedroom to be charged. A recommended amount of digital time, of course, depends on the child’s age. However, a rule of thumb would be that they should have engaged in all the ‘must do’s’ before they can engage in entertainment technology. This means they have done their homework, engaged in physical activity, read for 20 minutes, had their meals, and showered before they can go online. As a community, we should also encourage governments and educational institutions to develop and offer age-appropriate technologies and standards. This is where educational arenas need to develop further. There is a necessity to integrate mental health awareness and lessons within the core curriculum so that our children are better equipped with a tool kit to grow up to be emotionally intelligent and aware adults. Prevention is key. Lastly, if your child shows signs of mental health illness, it is imperative you seek help early.

86 The Lounge

ID1330 MYVIEWBOARD PEN DISPLAY

A Next-generation Solution to Support the New Normal in Education

PLAY VIDEO

A PORTABLE TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY TABLET THAT CAN CONNECT TO A DESKTOP OR LAPTOP COMPUTER, THE ID1330 MYVIEWBOARD PEN DISPLAY, LAUNCHED BY LEADING GLOBAL PROVIDER OF VISUAL SOLUTIONS, VIEWSONIC CORP, CAN, AMONG OTHER THINGS, HELP TO ORGANISE THE PROCESS OF DISTANCE LEARNING OR REMOTE WORK.

he Pen Display is controlled with a special electromagnetic stylus that recognises up to 8192 levels of pressure. Consequently, it can be used for a wide array of applications, from handwritten notes to comments and sketches. This can eradicate two main challenges teachers face in distance learning: (1) the difficulty of using a mouse to add annotations and (2) the ability to maintain eye contact with students. Using a

portable digital whiteboard, teachers can write and take notes on the ID1330 and still keep eye contact with students, just as they would in a physical classroom. Allowing intuitive teaching without changing the teachers’ natural behaviour, the Pen Display pen is specifically designed to allow for precise yet diverse handwriting of text, math formulas, and other typical teaching content.

The Pen Display has six customisable keys on the left side of the display, which can be used to open specific applications. One can also be used to erase the screen instead of rubbing the eraser all over it – that’s a real bonus. And the Pen itself is battery-free, so there is no need ever to put it on charge. It’s very responsive, too; it’s hard to notice any delay. As far as connectivity goes, you get a USB-C to USB-C cable, a Mini HDMI to HDMI cable, and a USB-C to USB-A cable; all three of them are one meter long. The Pen Display features two USB-C ports, and you can use both of them for the input. In fact, the technical specifications are extremely impressive:

Display pen is specifically designed to allow for precise yet diverse handwriting of text, math formulas, and other common teaching content

 13.3-inch display with 1920×1080 pixels resolution  Dimensions: 13.54 x 8.27 x 0.28 -inch  0.815 Kilograms  Compatible with Windows 7 and above  Battery-Free Pen  Writing Response: 266 PPS (point per second)  Accuracy: ±0.25mm  Pressure Level: 8192 Levels  Detectable Height: 15mm above the glass Kevin Chu, Director of the Pen Display and Authentication Business Unit, ViewSonic, explained: “ViewSonic is a leader in education technology, and it is our responsibility to harness the brand’s forward vision to solve the education challenges faced by students and educators across classrooms and blended learning systems. The ID1330 myViewBoard Pen Display will advance their skill in distance teaching and learning to ensure continuity of education.”

Intuitive teaching without changing the teachers’ natural behaviour

It’s hard to disagree. Teachers are finding it challenging to remain interactive and annotate with students in an online classroom in the current unfortunate circumstances of the ongoing pandemic. But with the help of this little technological marvel, they can do both!

To find out more, visit www.viewsonic.com or get in touch with ViewSonic at sales.mea@viewsonic.com

The Lounge

THE LEGO® GROUP BRINGS TWO-PLAYER ACTION TO THE LEGO® SUPER MARIO™ UNIVERSE The LEGO Group has announced a new unique social play experience that, for the first time, enables children and fans to connect LEGO® Mario™ and LEGO® Luigi™ figures for brand new two-player adventures in the LEGO Super Mario universe. Perfect for family activities, this exciting feature will encourage even more social play, with two players able to enjoy the universe of LEGO Super Mario at the same time for new brick-built adventures.

89 Once connected via Bluetooth, two-player adventures with LEGO Mario and LEGO Luigi (or any combination of the two figures) are made possible. Now, children and fans can play as a team, collect extra digital coins by doing in-sync actions like walking, flipping and jumping, or work together to defeat enemies, complete challenges, share rewards or even by changing up the play and competing against each other. The new unique two-player feature was also shared in a video posted by the LEGO Group and Nintendo. PLAY VIDEO Available to download from the App Store or whichever provider you use. “For us, it’s all about encouraging continuous creative rebuilding and extended playtime. We’re not only bringing LEGO Mario and LEGO Luigi, their friends and enemies to life in new interactive ways for endless fun, we’re also thrilled to expand their play experience and the LEGO Super Mario universe with even more new sets and characters, something we really hope will excite fans,” says Simon Kent, Creative Lead, LEGO Super Mario.

Once connected via Bluetooth, two-player adventures with LEGO Mario and LEGO Luigi (or any combination of the two figures) are made possible The interactive and highly-anticipated Adventures with Luigi Starter Course are the latest extension of the LEGO Super Mario product line, the result of a unique partnership with Nintendo that has introduced an entirely new way to play with LEGO bricks. Players will be able to get their hands on LEGO Luigi with the LEGO Super Mario Adventures with Luigi Starter Course. This set contains both single and dual play elements and is available from 1 August at LEGO certified stores and other leading toy retailers. LEGO Luigi and LEGO Mario, the fraternal twin brothers, are available as separate Starter Courses – both functioning as entry points into the world of LEGO Super Mario –with the two-player interactive play available using any combination of the two figures from 1 August. As well as unveiling the new Bluetoothenabled two-player mode, the LEGO Group is also introducing four new Expansion Sets, two new Power-Up Packs and ten new Character Packs.

WABI SABI: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life Not everything has to be perfect. There is beauty in a cracked vase, joy in a rainy day, and a learning experience in defeat. Beth Kempton, an awardwinning entrepreneur and self-help author whose books have been translated into 24 languages, introduces readers to this enlightening and lifeaffirming concept in ‘Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life’. Wabi sabi (‘wah-bi sahbi’) is a captivating idea that derives from Japanese aesthetics. It helps us to perceive beauty in imperfection, recognise the value of simplicity, and accept the fleeting nature of all things. It is a refreshing remedy to our fast-paced, consumer-driven world, encouraging its adherents to slow down, reconnect with nature, and be kinder to themselves. Wabi sabi helps to simplify everything, focusing on what actually matters in life. From celebrating the rhythm of the seasons through to recycling and ageing with grace, wabi sabi teaches followers to find more joy and inspiration in what is, as Beth puts it, a perfectly imperfect life. More relevant than ever in the 21st century, as we look for fresh ways to approach challenges and seek meaning beyond materialism, wabi sabi is a concept whose time has come. Almost everyone is encouraged to strive for perfection, yet it can never be attained – think of all the energy wasted trying to achieve something that is not possible.

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Your home will never be exactly the way to want it; someone will always have a better car than you, and no, your child is not going to be an astronaut. But ask yourself, are you happy in your home, does your car get you from A to B, and does little Jimmy really want to be an astronaut in the first place? Oh, and that pot you dropped, buy some glue and fix it – you’ll be amazed at how good it feels to have a beautiful but imperfect pot on show. The cracks show it has a history. It has lived, something that so many people fail to do nowadays. They are too busy with things and status. So be like the pot and enjoy your life! ‘Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life’ was selected as a recommended read by TIME Magazine and described as ‘a truly transformational read’ by Sunday Times Style. It’s one of the few reads that could genuinely change your life for the better.

90 The Lounge - Fashion

OVS LAUNCHES KIDSWEAR COLLECTION OVS, Italy’s leading fashion brand for men, women, and children’s clothing, has launched its SS21 collection across all stores in the UAE. Its playful and contemporary aesthetic livens up classic themes as part of a new, modern take on the concept of elegance.

Denim has an eco-friendly vocation: since 2019 it has been produced without potassium permanganate and uses processes that consume less water

The Lounge - Fashion

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animal-free padding in the Ultralight jackets

his season, everyday wear plays a key role, expressed in the Essential line, a range of functional, versatile children’s wardrobe staples, and in the Loungewear collection, consisting of sweatshirts, trousers and leggings, in an extensive range of colours, designed to ensure comfort during every daytime activity, from learning online at home to playing outside. This spring-summer, pieces are designed to be easily mixed and matched and, with a selection of items made of organic cotton, are driven by an ethos of sustainability. This enlightened philosophy means that kids can do their bit to look after future generations and Mother Earth. Versatility and the ability to meet the practical requirements of everyday life also make a comeback in the theme of the Denim Revolution, which breaks the rules by using the bold coolness of jeans to break up elegant outfits and complete casual looks. Denim also has an eco-friendly vocation: since 2019, it has been produced without potassium permanganate and uses processes that consume less water. The sustainability ethos behind the SS21 collection is also reflected in the choice of 100% animal-free padding in the Ultralight jackets.

These colourful reversible down jackets one side features a faded effect, the other solid colour - are ideal for the season of transition and feature innovative padding made of Dupont Sorona®, an ultra-lightweight fibre, boasting high thermal insulation, breathability and a small environmental footprint of 37% from renewable sources. The range of spring outerwear is completed by water and wind-resistant rain jackets, with eye-catching, contrasting details and zips. Comfy, stylish cotton and linen blend tops will also be very popular this season, used in timeless garments in neutral shades, with clean lines and relaxed, loose styles. The Positano line features the brightness of lemon and fades into the quiet calmness of whites and light blues, mimicking the unmistakable shades of the Mediterranean.

For more information, visit the website: www.liwastores.com/ovs/

94 Travel Near

BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER AT DUBAI’S MUST-VISIT ATTRACTIONS

 Indoor karting

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CALLING ALL ADRENALINE JUNKIES  Channel your inner Lewis Hamilton at Dubai Motor City’s Indoor Kartdome. Satisfy your need for speed at this thrilling attraction, which boasts a 620m track with 17 turns and can host up to 10 drivers on the track at any one time.  Head to iFly and defy gravity as you experience the sensation of skydiving without having to step straight out of a plane. Promising to give you an adrenaline rush like no other, this indoor skydiving centre is suited for either a first-time experience or to hone your skydiving skills.

HEAD TO IFLY AND DEFY GRAVITY AS YOU EXPERIENCE THE SENSATION OF SKYDIVING WITHOUT HAVING TO STEP STRAIGHT OUT OF A PLANE

 Dubai Mall skating rink

FOR THE CULTURE VULTURES  Engage your senses with the Theatre of Digital Art’s unique multi-sensory, multi-media immersive exhibition in Souk Madinat Jumeirah, offering a hub of entertainment, education and art. Guests can explore the unique digital and immersive exhibitions and attend regular masterclasses for both adults and children.  Enjoy an unforgettable performance at La Perle, a live, immersive performance and the first permanent show in the region. Located in Al Habtoor City, the show takes place in a unique purposebuilt aqua theatre, which holds a huge 2.7 million litres of water. Get set for an evening packed with inspiring stunts, stunning artistic displays, special effects and dazzling imagery

 La Perle

GROW YOUNG AGAIN  Summon your inner child at Brass Monkey, Dubai’s adults-only (21+) arcade and entertainment centre, featuring 12 bowling lanes, VR racing car simulators and some of the city’s best retro arcade games. Located on Bluewaters Island, this destination is an ideal spot to spend evenings with a group of friends.  Check out The Dubai Mall’s Olympic-sized skating rink, and cool down as you have an enjoyable afternoon with the family, or sharpen your ice skating skills by taking a class in the Skating Academy.

LOCATED IN AL HABTOOR CITY, THE SHOW TAKES PLACE IN A UNIQUE PURPOSE-BUILT AQUA THEATRE, WHICH HOLDS A HUGE 2.7 MILLION LITRES OF WATER MAKE A SPLASH  Visit Aquaventure Waterpark, the world’s largest waterpark, and get your pulse racing on over 30 slides and attractions, including the newly opened Trident Tower, which is home to a number of record-breaking slides.  UAE residents can avail of an incredible 40% off Aquaventure Waterpark, with a day pass starting from AED 169 per person, and a Super Pass, which also offers access to the Lost Chambers Aquarium, from AED 189 per person. Nestled at the heart of La Mer, Dubai’s ultimate beachfront destination, and offering panoramic views of the ocean and Dubai’s skyline,  Laguna Waterpark is the perfect addition to your summer itinerary. With more than 10 rides across all thrill levels, this attraction promises a fun day out for all.  An old favourite amongst residents and visitors from 1999 is the Wild Wadi Waterpark, home to thrilling ramps and raft based slides, all set against spectacular views of the Burj Al Arab. Splash into fun this summer and enjoy the cool UAE residents offer from AED 99 for a day pass.

 Indoor sports

STAY FIT

VIEWS FOR DAYS

If you are passionate about sports and looking to engage in fun indoor physical activities,  Dubai Sports World is the perfect destination for the summer months. This safe and secure indoor venue boasts an array of sports and academic coaching for all ages, as well as a range of activities such as football, basketball, cricket, badminton and a lot more.

 Enjoy sweeping 360-degree views from the recently opened The View at The Palm Observation Deck located on the 52nd floor of The Palm Tower. Situated 240m above Palm Jumeirah, the ascent to the top takes three minutes in the elevator, which offers a floor-to-ceiling digital sea, sand and sky experience.

 Indoor skydiving

All residents and visitors in Dubai can confidently tour the city and visit its attractions with peace of mind knowing that stringent precautionary measures are in place to ensure the health and safety of all. This is underpinned by the DUBAI ASSURED stamp, a compliance protocol that recognises and certifies all establishments within the tourism ecosystem that adhere to the health and safety guidelines. Dubai was also awarded the ‘Safe Travels’ stamp by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in 2020, giving visitors more confidence to explore the destination.

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YOU HAVE VACATION DREAMS; WE HAVE DREAM VACATIONS! After a year of upset, job insecurity, and enormous amounts of stress, a little time to unwind will do wonders for mind, body and spirit. It’s time to take a vacation! With so much uncertainty around the subject of travel, we feel many of us will be looking to take trips closer to home or introduce staycations into our lives. That’s why we’ve put together some great suggestions for staying local while still allowing you to get away from your regular routine. So pack your bags and leave tonight!

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KIDS GO FREE ON YAS ISLAND THIS SUMMER Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s premier leisure and entertainment hub, has unveiled an enhanced product offering for travel trade at this year’s Arabian Travel Market. Until 30 September 2021, children below the age of 12 will stay and play for free - one child for every one paying adult. This includes complimentary admission to the Island’s world-class theme parks, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, as well as opportunities to stay and eat for free at the Island’s diverse portfolio of hotels.*

Yas Island’s Parks Hopper & Kids Go Free Promotion allows kids to access all three of Yas Island’s theme parks free. Book a package at any Yas Island Hotel with prices starting from AED 427.50** per adult for a one-night stay with access to all three Yas Island theme parks over two consecutive days. A two-night stay starts at AED 560.00** per adult, and a three-night stay starts at AED 692.50** per adult, with access to all three parks over three and four consecutive days, respectively. Bigger families can also book a family unit. Not only do kids get to go free to Yas Island’s theme parks, but they can also stay for free, if sharing a room with their parents, and can eat for free if they are booked on their parents’ meal plan. Additional Yas Island hotels offers include up to 20% discount on food and beverage, and up to 15% discount on spa services. Parents wanting to bring additional children will be able to add a supplementary child to their ticket

for AED 310 for 2 Days 3 Parks Hopper Offer, for AED 325 for 3 Days 3 Parks Hopper Offer, and AED 340 for four Days 3 parks Hopper Offer, with access to all three parks included in the offer. The ‘Kids Go Free’ summer packages give families access to more than 100 thrilling rides and attractions at the three one-of-kind theme parks nestled on the Island. From braving record-breaking rollercoasters at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to making waves with thrills and spills at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and onto the stories of superhero favourites and iconic characters at Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, there is a wealth of fun and adventure for the whole family to enjoy for a summer like no other.

Children below the age of 12 will be able to stay and play for free

The ‘Kids Go Free’ summer packages give families access to more than 100 thrilling rides and attractions In addition to three globally-renowned theme parks, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, Yas Island is also home to Guinness World recordbreaking adventure hub CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, as well as outstanding motorsports, an award-winning golf venue, world-class hospitality services, Yas Island is a destination like nowhere else.

For more information, bookings, and terms and condition, please visit www.yasisland.ae

*Terms and conditions apply. **From price is based on Yas Island 3* hotels and is per adult sharing in a double room. Supplements for single room occupancy apply.

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GET AWAY TO GET CLOSER DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island is located on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, 50 minutes away from Dubai International Airport. Boasting a beautiful beachfront location and an abundance of facilities and activities, DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island offers something for everyone of all ages. The resort offers 723 spacious and contemporary guestrooms, suites and villas, all completed with the modernity and luxury of our time.

Book your stay starting from AED 499 for the family of two adults and two kids, including breakfast

Play Video DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island

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Adults can relax on the private 650 metres white sandy beach, swim in one of the seven temperature-controlled pools or indulge in the luxurious spa, which offers seven treatment rooms, including a couple’s room. Bask in the sunshine on the stunning new floating seal pool located in the middle of azure blue waters of the Arabian Sea, with sunbeds for guests to soak up the sun and breathtaking panoramic views. Those who like to keep fit on holiday can avail themselves of the fitness centre or beach volleyball for the perfect action-packed summer vacation.

The expansive resort offers incredible familyfriendly facilities, including Chuckles kid’s club with a climbing wall, arcade games and an extensive outdoor playground featuring swings and trampolines. Pirate Boat Aqua Zone is guaranteed fun for the whole family, as well as the bouncy castle, water trampoline and gigantic inflatable football darts. Tarzan Boat, teens and adults’ water park features two slides, two high dive boards and a rope swing. The newest exciting attraction coming this summer is a Padel Tennis Court, a combination of squash and tennis, Padel Tennis is typically played in doubles on an enclosed court, with the ability to play the ball off the walls with solid, stringless racquets.

Book your stay starting from AED 499 for the family of two adults and two kids, including breakfast

Swim in one of the seven temperature - controlled pools or indulge in the luxurious spa

Guests are spoilt for choice with 13 on-site outlets; two all-day dining and four speciality restaurants, two pool bars, an English sports pub and many more amenities. Try the French or Italian cuisine at the Brasserie or Vespa restaurant or enjoy Asian and Turkish restaurants, Sanchaya and Meze; whether you are into healthy food, snacks or gourmet food all the way, we’ve got something to tickle your palate

Spend some family precious time this summer. Book your stay starting from AED 499 for the family of two adults and two kids, including breakfast. Kids Go Free up to 12 years, with breakfast included. For bookings with a minimum length of stay of three night or more, guests will receive one free scratch card upon check-in with a guaranteed prize.

DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island has taken all measures to ensure the safety of the guests and staff. The resort has obtained the Stay Safe Certificate by Bureau Veritas and has implemented the Hilton CleanStay, Hilton’s new industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection, which reinforces the current standards of housekeeping and hygiene.

For more information and reservations: Call: +971 7 203 0000 or E-mail: reservations_dtmarjan@hilton.com

Terms and conditions apply. Kids below 12 years stay for free with breakfast included, for different meal plans, hotel kid’s policy applies; Kids below 6 eat for free, 6 – 12 years pay 50%, kids above 12 years are considered adults.

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FOR THOSE WHO DEMAND THE FINEST THINGS IN LIFE

With temperatures rising, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah resorts invite guests to escape the heat and take refuge at a private pool villa overlooking desert landscapes at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, or head to a serene coastal destination at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach. These beautifully appointed sister resorts are less than an hour away from Dubai and are ideal for those seeking to escape the rush of city life and sample the best of the region from the comfort of their private pool villa. BACK TO NATURE

FULL MOON CAMEL RIDE

A host of adventures, activities and experiences await at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert. With temperatures typically cooler than the city, due to the region’s mountainous geography, there is a multitude of reasons to choose the resort, which is secreted away within the 500-hectare desert conservation area. A contemporary interpretation of traditional Bedouin architecture, the 100-villa resort has so much to offer, from signature in-villa dining to transformative spa and wellness experiences, alongside an unparalleled choice of adventure activities and wildlife encounters.

Experience an exclusive moonlight camel ride in the heart of a stunning nature reserve. Taking place at the end of every month during the full moon, guests can enjoy a magical camel ride under the open sky within the beautiful Arabian Desert. EMBARK ON A DESERT EXPLORATION Connect with nature and encounter the wildlife situated within the Desert Conservation Reserve. From the powerful Arabian Oryx to the bashful Arabian Gazelles and the recently introduced Blackbuck antelope, the

team of knowledgeable interpretive nature guides will explain the ways of the desert. This fun activity is perfect for the whole family. GAZE AT THE STARS There is nothing quite like looking up at the stars and enjoying a peaceful and serene moment of calm, away from the buzzing city lights. Guests can request a private session with a specialised astronomy expert who will guide them through learning about the solar system, spot stars, constellations, visible planets and galaxies. BE PAMPERED AT THE GENUINELY UNIQUE RAINFOREST EXPERIENCE Combining European hydrothermal culture with traditional Middle Eastern bathing rituals, guests can escape the city and retreat to this signature wellness destination. A one-of-a-kind concept with 16 different stations, each travelling one step further in the journey to relaxation, the Rainforest Experience is a rejuvenating sanctuary in the heart of the desert.

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Home to just 32 villas, guests can enjoy the privacy of their own private swimming pool

EXPERIENCE THE RESORT IN A WHOLE NEW ‘LIGHT’ Led by a knowledgeable guide, a night walk is a great way to see the resort in a whole new light whilst enjoying the beauty of the evening sky. You will have the opportunity to spot nocturnal animals in all their glory, including foraging desert hedgehogs, wily desert fox, and frog-eyed geckos.

RETREAT TO THE SERENITY OF AL HAMRA BEACH Just an hour away from Dubai and two hours from Abu Dhabi, the island-inspired resort at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach is secluded enough to feel like a private island retreat. Home to just 32 villas, guests can enjoy the privacy of their own private swimming pool or visit the resort pool, which overlooks an expansive stretch of pure white sand. A host of activities are on offer, enabling guests to keep cool, from sunset dining to floating culinary experiences or simply cooling off in the sparkling Arabian Sea.

OFFER: Al Rimal is AED 1,900++ (including a night stay in a villa with a private pool, breakfast and complimentary bird and owl show)

Al Hamra Beach is secluded enough to feel like a private island retreat AN INSTAGRAMMABLE FLOATING BREAKFAST As the temperature continues to rise, this unique experience awaits guests seeking to stay poolside and bask in the morning sun. Breakfast is served from an Insta-worthy floating tray filled with international dishes and specialities in the comfort of their own private pool, whilst guests lay back and enjoy the relaxing sounds of the waves gently lapping the shore. A REFRESHING SUMMER MENU AT SHORE HOUSE

FRESH, SEASONAL CUISINE AT FARMHOUSE During the summer, guests can sample a specially curated seasonal menu at the award-winning Farmhouse restaurant featuring delicacies such as Poached Seabass Fillet, Smokehouse Chicken Breast and Summer Vegetable Spaghetti, topped off with tempting desserts such as Pineapple Carpaccio with Coconut Granite or Fresh Strawberry Tartar.

with their loved ones and witness the stunning sun setting over the Arabian Gulf.

DIY IN-VILLA BARBEQUE EXPERIENCE Indulge in unique dining experiences include a relaxed DIY in-villa barbeque concept where guests can let their creativity flow and ‘Be Their Own Chef’, whilst enjoying breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf from their own private villa and terrace overlooking the ocean.

The resort’s signature restaurant Shore House offers island-inspired dining with a sophisticated touch. Overlooking the mesmerising Ras Al Khaimah coastline, the menu features an array of local seafood, grilled meats and succulent salads carefully crafted by the resort’s renowned culinary team. During weekends throughout June, guests can sample seasonal specialties such as local seafood paella, or Moules Poulette, served, of course, with fries. The Rainforest Experience is a rejuvenating sanctuary in the heart of the desert WATERSPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

Tented villas AED 3,000++ (including a night stay in a villa with private pool, breakfast and complimentary bird and owl show) BOOKING: For reservations or more information, please contact: +971 7 206 7777, or visit www.ritzcarlton. com/en/hotels/uae/al-wadi-desert/offers.

ISLAND-INSPIRED PICNICS AND SUNSET DINING In-house guests can enjoy many private island-inspired activities such as lavish breakfast picnics overlooking the stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and exclusive barbeque experiences at a secluded spot. Guests seeking to share a special moment can arrange a relaxed sailing picnic aboard the ‘Lion of the Sea’ boat

With a host of watersports and beach activities available to guests, the summer months are an ideal time to enjoy the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf. Led by expert guides, guests can glide along the water on a paddleboard or kayak or spend an afternoon fishing or sailing. OFFER: The starting price for the base category: Al Bahar at AED 3,100++ (including a night stay in a villa with a private pool, cabana garden and breakfast) Al Shamal Ocean View Vila AED 5,000++ (including a night stay in a villa with private pool, cabana garden and breakfast, in-villa check-in, welcome bottle of bubbly, welcome amenities, complimentary minibar, one complimentary activity or 15-minutes foot massage and two pieces of laundry) BOOKING: For reservations or more information, please contact: +971 7 206 7777, or visit www.ritzcarlton. com/alhamrabeach

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INFINITY SUMMER Hit refresh this summer at a lush desert hideaway as you beat the heat in luxury. Recharge your batteries with Bab Al Shams’ dreamy all-inclusive staycation, leaving you close to home and without breaking the bank. Running from 16 May onwards, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort is the perfect destination for both UAE residents and GCC travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Set amidst rolling dunes and sun-drenched courtyards, the Bedouin-inspired lodgings offer you and your loved ones vibrant, well-appointed rooms with the very finest facilities. And after you’ve settled in, why not unwind by the resort’s infinity pools as you sip and savour a delicious lunch menu of poolside specials and free-flowing beverages. Continue your celebrations at the resort’s elegant rooftop lounge, Al Sarab, where breathtaking views, dazzling sunsets and delicious beverages will keep you company. At nightfall, dine under the stars at the must-experience desert restaurant, Al Hadheerah, where culinary delights and cultural theatre will keep you entertained all night. INFINITY SUMMER STAYCATION OVERVIEW AED 2,500 per night, inclusive of full board stay and six hours free flowing house beverages. PARTICIPATING VENUES AND INCLUSIONS:  Breakfast at Al Forsan Restaurant Lunch by the pool with two consecutive hours of free-flowing premium beverages  Sunset beverages at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge Dinner buffet at Al Hadheerah with two consecutive hours of free-flowing beverages

HAVE IT ALL FOR AED2,500

The special rates are valid for two adults.

AT NIGHTFALL, DINE UNDER THE STARS AT THE MUST-EXPERIENCE DESERT RESTAURANT, AL HADHEERAH

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THE COOLEST SUMMER STAYCATION AT HABTOOR GRAND RESORT, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

Summers are made much cooler as the Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection has put together an incredible value-added staycation deal for the UAE Residents. The resort boasts a private beach, ideal for those who want an uninterrupted and secluded experience. Families with kids can make themselves comfortable and enjoy privacy in the spacious connecting rooms that the resort offers. That’s not all. This family resort has a special kids pool section equipped with water slides for them to bounce and splash while the adults take a plunge in the main pool. ALL THIS CAN BE YOURS AT PRICES STARTING AT AED 700 PER NIGHT. THIS BUMPER OFFER IS VALID UNTIL 31 AUGUST 2021. For bookings or more information visit, www.marriott.com/dxbhg or call +971 444 90869 or email ak.dxbhg.reservations@marriott.com

SKI DUBAI TO HOST WORLD’S FIRST INDOOR EDITION OF RED BULL JUMP & FREEZE Ski Dubai will host the world’s first indoor edition of Red Bull Jump & Freeze in partnership with Dubai Sports Council on Friday, 9 July. The unique competition will see 20 teams in custom-made costumes and vehicles slide down the slope of Ski Dubai, hit the kicker and jump into a pool of freezing water before a panel of judges who will decide the winners. To enter, thrill-seekers over the age of 16 must register their team on www. redbull.com/jumpandfreezeuae and submit a sketch of their costume and vehicle by Monday, 28 June. Each team can consist of two or three members, and the top 20 teams will be announced on the Red Bull website on Tuesday, 29 June.

Red Bull Jump & Freeze is free to take part in, and entrants will be in with a chance of winning a host of prizes, including luxury hotel stays, passes for entertainment experiences, including Ski Dubai, Dreamscape and VOX Cinemas, as well as branded sports apparel and accessories.

MAKE THE MOST OF THIS SUMMER BY BOOKING AN ESCAPE ON THE SHORES OF THE ARABIAN GULF WITH THE BEACH AT YOUR DOORSTEP AND NATURE AS YOUR BACKDROP

The unique competition will hit the slopes of Ski Dubai on 09 July as part of its impressive calendar of snow sports events

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WHERE CAN YOU TRAVEL TO FROM DUBAI THIS SUMMER? As the world slowly opens up to travel more and more of us will be heading out of Dubai on our summer travels. If you haven’t your booked trip yet, read our guide to the destinations letting tourists in right now from Dubai, we’ve got the lowdown on the entry requirements as residents for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. DESTINATIONS LETTING IN VACCINATED AND UNVACCINATED TOURISTS RIGHT NOW

DON’T FORGET TO DOUBLE CHECK BEFORE TRAVELLING – IN SUCH A RAPIDLY CHANGING SITUATION, TRAVEL ADVICE IS CHANGING FROM DAY TO DAY

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BARBADOS For many, visiting this Caribbean island is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and after the year we’ve all had, now seems like the perfect time to visit. And luckily for us, you can travel to Barbados from Dubai right now.  Y ou can find the full entry requirements for tourists coming to Barbados from Dubai in 2021 on the Visit Barbados website here.

CURAÇAO Another Caribbean rock enveloped by crystal waters and whiter than white beaches that have us suspecting they hoover the sand after we’ve all gone to bed. Curaçao is welcoming visitors once more, and there’s no need to quarantine providing you follow robust health and safety protocols.  F or more information, visit the Curaçao government website here.

FRANCE Home to Paris, the City of Love, France will be welcoming those who adore the smell of freshly baked baguettes as of Wednesday June 9.  T he full rules and restrictions can be found on the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs website.

CROATIA Dubrovnik, aka King’s Landing, needs to be on the top of your to-visit list from Dubai. Croatia opened its borders to travellers from Dubai at the start of April.  You can find the full rules and restrictions for tourists looking to travel to Croatia from Dubai by clicking here.

CYPRUS Known for its gorgeous beaches and spectacular archaeological sites, Cyprus is a great travel option that’s just a four-hour flight away from Dubai. And as of April 1, travellers from Dubai can now visit the Mediterranean island.  The full rules and restrictions for those looking to travel to Cyprus from Dubai can be found on the visit Cyprus website here.

GEORGIA Reachable from Dubai in just over three hours, Georgia is already one of the most popular holiday destinations for travellers from the UAE. And how could it not be, with stunning ski resorts and hiking routes that are a breath of fresh air for Dubai residents. Thankfully, this beautiful country opened up to travel from Dubai in July last year.  The full rules and restrictions for travel to Georgia from Dubai can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

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GERMANY Craving bratwurst? Germany is opening its doors to global travellers from Friday June 25, and we’ve got all the details we know you’ll be hungry for. Travellers must check with the individual German federal state they plan to visit as all have different rules to follow prior to arrival.

GREECE There are so many gorgeous islands in Greece that you could come back year after year and still never get tired of visiting. And if you’re looking to add another island to your “been there, done that” list, you’re in luck, as Greece is open to travel from Dubai regardless of vaccination status as of May 14.  The current rules and restrictions for travel from Dubai to Greece are available on travel.gov.gr

 F or more details, click here.

ICELAND Fancy escaping the summer heat? Iceland might just be the place for you, then, as average temperatures peak at just 14C in July. You’ll also be able to explore the Blue Lagoon and see the northern lights – it’s a real bucket list destination for Dubai residents. Travel to Iceland from Dubai has been open for vaccinated tourists since April 2021.  Y ou can find the full entry procedure details for tourists travelling from Dubai to Iceland on the Directorate of Health website here.

KENYA Fancy spotting Simba, Timon and Pumba? Kenya is world famous for its safaris and thankfully for Dubaians, the country is open for travel.  Y ou can find more details about entry requirements from Dubai by heading to mfa.go.ke.

ITALY Two of the greatest foods in the world originated from Italy, and while there are some excellent pasta and pizzas and here in Dubai, none quite match up to the real thing. Which is why we’re so excited about a quarantine-free travel corridor opening up to facilitate travel from Dubai to Italy.  You can find full details about travel between Dubai and Italy on the Ministry of Health website here.

LEBANON The Pearl of the Middle East calling your name? Good news, as travel to Lebanon is open for all travellers from Dubai now.  The full entry requirement details for travellers to Lebanon from Dubai can be found on the Ministry of Public Health website here.

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MALDIVES With white sandy shores and waters so blue you almost can’t believe it, the Maldives is high on our to-visit list from Dubai. And the gorgeous archipelago has been open to tourists from Dubai since July 2020.  Y ou can find the full entry requirements for travellers to the Maldives from Dubai on the Visit Maldives website here.

MEXICO One of the largest and oldest cities in the Americas, Mexico City is well known for its iconic artwork, spicy cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. This North American destination is a prime spot for a summer vacation that’s full of adventure. Emirates will be flying to Mexico City via Barcelona starting Friday July 2.  F or more details click here

RUSSIA St Basil’s Cathedral, the Red Square, the Kremlin, the Bolshoi Theatre… all are absolute must-visits, and that’s just Moscow. There’s so much to see and do in Russia, and riding the TransSiberian railway has long been on our bucket list.  Y ou can find all the details about entry requirements by heading to tourism.gov.ru

MALTA While Malta might be one of the smallest countries in the world, this archipelago is filled with history, having been inhabited since around 5900 BCE. There are not one, not two, but three UNESCO world heritage sites for you to explore. Basically, culture vultures need to hop on a plane here immediately.  You can find more information on the entry requirements by heading to visitmalta.com.

MONTENEGRO Dreaming of rugged mountains, medieval villages and spectacular sandy beaches? You’ll get all that and much more in Montenegro, and thankfully, the Balkan country is open to tourism from Dubai.  Full entry requirement details for travel to Montenegro from Dubai can be found on montenegro.travel/en

SEYCHELLES Another spot beloved for its sunbathing and snorkeling opportunities, the Seychelles opened its borders to travellers from Dubai in March.  You can find more details about entry requirements from Dubai by heading to advisory.seychelles.travel.

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SPAIN Practising your flamenco moves in the kitchen. Scratching up on your Spanish lingo. Tasting tapas in your sleep. Well you don’t have to dream anymore because from Monday June 7, tourists will be able to enter Spain.

SWITZERLAND Swiss watch, Swiss chocolate, Swiss mountains – sounds like luxury, no? If you’re looking for a great holiday destination to beat the heat this summer, it doesn’t get better than Switzerland.  For up-to-date information about travelling to Switzerland click here.

 F or full information on entry requirements to Spain visit www.spth.gob.es

TANZANIA A country that contains the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has long been a place to which adventurers flock.  F or more information on travelling to Tanzania visit Tanzania.go.tz

THAILAND Are you dreaming of an island getaway? You can travel to Phuket, Thailand, quarantine-free starting Thursday July 1. Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, and arguably one of its most famous as a destination for beautiful beaches, clear blue sea and brilliant diving and snorkelling experiences.  For more details click here

TURKEY Thinking of travelling to Turkey? Well, there’s good news for UAE residents dreaming of a jaunt along the Bosphorus as both vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers don’t need to quarantine when travelling to Turkey from the UAE.

USA Hopped off the plane at L. AX with a dream and… Have you been dreaming of going to the USA? Want to see the Statue of Liberty? Or the Hollywood sign? There is so much to see and do in the USA, and now you can travel there without quarantining.

 Y ou can find the information form here

 For more details click here

DON’T FORGET TO DOUBLE CHECK BEFORE TRAVELLING – IN SUCH A RAPIDLY CHANGING SITUATION, TRAVEL ADVICE IS CHANGING FROM DAY TO DAY.

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A NEW TASTE OF SUMMER IN SAUDI ARABIA OFFERED FOR ALULA VISITORS This summer, AlUla invites families and adventurers to enjoy its vast natural landscapes, quiet splendor and ancient sites. A range of accommodation offers, spectacular dining opportunities, and numerous exciting outdoor adventures make the unspoiled beauty of AlUla an unbeatable offer for travelers and explorers of all ages!

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The ancient desert city is home to thousands of tombs cut into the sandstone mountains

UNMISSABLE DAYTIME ACTIVITIES  Only recently rediscovered by the world, AlUla, once at the crossroads of The Silk Road and The Incense Route, is rich in historical, geographical significance. Hegra, for instance, the ancient desert city, is home to thousands of tombs cut into the sandstone mountains and is the first registered UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia. Tours are conducted four times daily, all designed to avoid the heat of the midday sun.  Dadan and Jabal Ikmah tours showcase the magnificent stone remains of the Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms, as well as the Jabal Ikmah’s open-air library of rock inscriptions from ancient languages as varied as Aramaic, Dadanitic, Thamudic, Minaic and Nabataean. Tours start daily at 9.00 am and 4.00 pm.  Old Town tours, conducted by a local ‘rawi’ or storyteller, allows visitors to explore the labyrinth of mud-brick buildings that date back as early as the 12th-century and operate daily at 9.00 am, 10.00 am, 4.00 pm and 5.00 pm.  Then there is the Oasis Trail, a free activity that can be enjoyed without a guide between 8.00 am and 4.00 pm daily. It’s a 3km walk from Dadan South and ends at the Old Town, passing by the green oasis of AlWadi. Offering visitors an extraordinary nature stroll through the AlUla farms, it is suitable for families and nature lovers, no matter what their age. And we mustn’t forget the Cycling Trail, where visitors follow the pack leader on a leisurely bike ride through the sand dunes and surrounded by AlUla’s unique landscapes. This 14km trail boasts stunning vistas and is suitable for ages 12+.

The magnificent stone remains of the Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms EATING AND SHOPPING For shopping and food lovers, the Old Town Market is open daily. Visitors can enjoy traditional and delicious Saudi cuisine in restaurants along The Old Incense Route from noon, including Suhail, Merkaz, Alrahba Café, and Alnakheel Café. Or enjoy a mouth-watering fast-food meal at One o’ One Burger. Visitors can take advantage of a traditional and time-honored AlUla shopping experience from 3.00 pm till 11.00 pm. UNIQUE EVENING ACTIVITIES  Far from city lights, remote desert lands create some of the world’s most enviable dark skies. This makes AlUla an idyllic location for stargazing. And to make the experience even more unique, it’s all held outdoors amongst Gharameel’s mystical rock formations.  The Adventure Night Trail is a three to four hour guided hike through the extraordinary canyons of Al Madakheel and Sharaan Nature Reserve, providing opportunities to discover the local flora, fauna, as well as various rock art and drawings. The adventure is available evenings only, with a difficulty rating of Easy to Medium.  The Hidden Valley Night Hike is a 1.5-hour journey through one of AlUla’s most secluded and enchanting canyons. Offering stunning views and wide-open desert landscapes, the hike is only available on Fridays and by request during the summer. AlUla is such a unique destination because of its layer upon layer of human history and its wealth of natural wonders. Few locations can boast such a rich combination of heritage, culture and natural beauty. And what better time than the summer of 2021 for travelers from around the world to explore and discover AlUla and all of its many treasures!

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Visitors can enjoy traditional and delicious Saudi cuisine in restaurants along The Old Incense Route

For bookings, contact your local travel agent, or visit: www.experienceAlUla.com www.experiencealula.com/en/plan-your-trip/travel-packages

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LIFE TASTES BETTER WITH KIBSONS A second-generation family business established in the UAE in 1982, Kibsons provides its customers with the highest quality fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and groceries exactly when they need them, at the most competitive prices available.

There is express delivery within Dubai and same-day delivery throughout the UAE

ibsons’ goal has always been to provide products that the company’s staff and employees would be more than happy to take home to their own families. Its mantra underlines this: ‘If it is good enough for our families, it is good enough to share with the rest of the UAE’. To achieve this objective, Kibsons has spent years building great relationships with its growers and suppliers worldwide, supplying retailers and the wholesale market with extraordinary service in a highly competitive marketplace.

500 brand-new high quality and affordably priced items from the Sainsbury’s food range

119 However, with one eye always on the future, in 2017, the company decided it wanted to create something more personalised, special and convenient, direct to consumers. This was the start of its celebrated Home Delivery business. WHAT YOU WANT IS WHAT YOU GET When Kibsons launched its e-commerce site, the company was free to explore the availability of all of the amazing varieties, origins and products it knew would bring a new and exciting change to UAE households. And this has caught the imagination of consumers, who can now enjoy products, categories and hidden gems from small growers and suppliers that never find their way onto retailers’ shelves in the normal course of events.

SAINSBURY’S LAUNCH One of the core values at Kibsons is giving families access to a wide range of affordable, great-quality, healthy and wholesome foods, all sourced sustainably. Thus, its partnership with Sainsbury’s is a match made in heaven, as its values are totally aligned. Thanks to this partnership, families and loyal customers of Kibsons will find their old favourites, alongside 500 brand-new high quality and affordably priced items from the Sainsbury’s food range, all brought together online for the first time in the region and delivered to the customer’s doorstep.

What’s more, placing an order with Kibsons is really simple. All you have to do is log in to the website (www.kibsons.com), choose from a huge variety of handpicked and fresh items, pay online, and get it all delivered to your doorstep at the most convenient time to yourself. You can also download the Kibsons app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store, making the shopping process even easier and faster. But this is only the beginning! Kibsons has put together a whole portfolio of services designed to make shopping for high-quality fruit, veg and meat easy, and sometimes even a little unexpected in its scope. DIY BOXES Kibsons launched its ever-popular DIY Boxes to make the meal prep process stress-free for families. Whether it’s returning from a hard day at work or doing the school drop-off and pick-ups, chances are you could use a little help to ensure you and your family enjoy delicious, wholesome and healthy meals without any added fuss or stress. With an array of the freshest fruit and vegetables, you can choose from delightful smoothie options, ideal for offering a fulfilling start to the day, as well as delectable lunch and dinner time options that can be prepared quickly. Each convenient box contains all of the ingredients, step-by-step instructions that you need to serve your meal, and it’s all delivered directly to your door, ensuring that you and your family are eating healthier in a flash. LUNCHBOX IDEAS Kibsons has specially curated a set of Lunchbox Ideas where many of the lunch ideas for school can be made ahead of time or prepped the night before, so assembly in the morning is effortless. Not only are they quick to prep, but they also taste fantastic too and can be delivered right to your doorstep in no time. The Lunchbox Ideas from Kibsons are packed with exactly the right amount of ingredients to make some delicious meals for your little ones. Each box comes with a recipe card for ease, and all food items are packed neatly inside – it couldn’t be simpler, and the recipes will keep your kids coming back for more.

FAST TRACK DELIVERIES Whether you have forgotten that all-important ingredient for tonight’s dinner, or you’ve realised last-minute that your little one doesn’t have their favourite snack for their packed lunch the next day, fear not, as Kibsons offers a fast-track and free twohour same-day delivery service within Dubai. It’s the most convenient and efficient way to do your grocery shopping, especially for working parents or those who like to stock up on their favourite household items regularly and need a quick turnaround. BULK BUY BONUS As part of its commitment to offering value for families across the UAE, Kibsons is proud to present its’ bulk buy bonus’ scheme, where its customers can earn free bonus credit when they purchase a package. This cost-saving initiative allows consumers to save money long-term on weekly food shopping, whereby if you add AED 5,000 to your wallet, you receive an extra AED 250. Add AED 7,000 and receive an additional AED 500, and if you top up with AED 10,000, you can avail an additional AED1,000!

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Health and Nutrition Kibsons also has a bulk buy section on its website and app, where fresh fruits, meats, vegetables, tinned goods, dairy products and more can be purchased at great-value prices; perfect for weekly meal planning for the family! MAKING PEOPLE HAPPY THROUGH FOOD Committed to going the extra mile for its customers, Kibsons also reacts to currents demands and situations, such as with its coffee mornings and box challenges. COFFEE MORNINGS WITH KIBSONS The virtual coffee mornings with Kibsons were launched last year during lockdown, and it turned out to be a great way to communicate with some of the company’s loyal customers and keep them up-to-date with all of the latest news and product offerings. Customers also had the opportunity to enjoy close interaction with Halima Jumani - a mother, entrepreneur and one of the key personalities behind Kibsons as a business. KIBSONS’ BOX CHALLENGES The Mystery Box Challenge was launched during Ramadan for all culinary aficionados; in fact, everyone who is fond of cooking. Participants were asked to submit their entry by emailing Kibsons with their details, along with their preferred option of vegan or non-vegan boxes. Once shortlisted, the 100 lucky applicants were sent the mystery boxes and asked to create meals using the ingredients provided - they were allowed two pantry items from their end as well. Then, they were encouraged to share their recipes on social media, using the hashtag #KibsonsMysteryBoxChallenge and the winners will be chosen based on their cooking and presentation skills. This was another way to engage with families and encourage them to participate in fun challenges that boost their motivation and hone their cooking skills.

121 BETTER INGREDIENTS, BETTER MEALS So, why should you consider adding a food delivery service? The answer is surprisingly simple: freshness, convenience, cost savings and the chance to experience new products that are sourced based on taste, flavour and ingredients. Kibsons is a direct importer of fresh produce and meat, which means that customers receive products fresher than buying from the shelves in any supermarket. The convenience of being able to sit anywhere and open the Kibsons App on your phone or tablet, or use the website, and know that you are buying the best

The Lunchbox Ideas from Kibsons are packed with exactly the right amount of ingredients to make some delicious meals for your little ones

quality products, delivered conveniently and on time, is something that makes life just that little bit easier. The company also has a fantastic referral system and rewards programme for customers, as well as discounts when adding bulk payments to your Kibsons wallet. Moreover, there is express delivery within Dubai and same-day delivery throughout the UAE. Delivery with Kibsons is making healthy eating and convenient shopping affordable, from its fresh produce and impressive Sainsbury range through to its fabulous gifting range of flowers and cards.

Kibsons has spent years building great relationships with its growers and suppliers from around the world FOOD WITH INTEGRITY Kibsons always looks at being a leader and is constantly searching for new and innovative products that are health-focused and new to the market. It is able to launch smaller, more boutique products, too, which you might not find in major retailers. Furthermore, Kibsons is always excited to receive its customers’ suggestions! Whatever the product, though, the company ensures that all suppliers are accredited and certified by various international bodies such as HACCP, SADEX, RAIN FOREST ALLIANCE, ISO, BRC, FAIRTRADE, to name a few. Kibsons is also HACCP, and ISO certified, as well as actively working on recycling within the UAE.

Some people live to eat, and some people eat to live. At Kibsons, they live to eat, meaning that the whole team cares about what it offers customers and what products it selects. The company wants to see people enjoy and experience something special every time they order from Kibsons.

Contact www.kibsons.com 800KIBSONS Download App Google Play App Store

Looking to the future, Kibsons wants to be in every household. For some, this will mean everything they need for their weekly shop, and for others, it might just be their fruit and vegetables. Whatever the decision, Kibsons wants to be the first option people think of when they think of online grocery.

Kibsons - healthy eating made easy, affordable and convenient.

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Health and Nutrition

BACK TO SCHOOL FOR TEACHER AFTER RARE CANCER SURGERY Digestive Disease Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi who treated Dale with a multidisciplinary team of physicians, dieticians, and wound care nurses in November 2020, says their attempt to clear the blocked bile ducts and relieve the symptoms of jaundice with stents was a success. This approach was necessary to continue his treatment to remove the cancer. The team had to carry out a central hepatectomy, where they had to remove the bile duct and gallbladder completely and had to resect three-quarters of Dale’s liver to cure him. “About 90% of gallbladder cancers are unresectable, so treating Dale with this procedure is quite uncommon. The surgery required a lot of technical capability and a team with expertise in interventional radiology, advanced endoscopy, gastroenterology and wound care,” Dr Ahmed explains.

Abu Dhabi schoolteacher Dale Yost didn’t suspect for a minute that a sudden itch all over his body could be anything more than a simple dermatological issue. The 66-year-old thought that the pills and creams prescribed by a dermatologist would solve the problem. But when the itching persisted, he began worrying. Additional bloodwork and scans done at the first hospital he visited revealed that he was suffering from gallbladder and bile duct cancer. “It sounds so strange that an itch can be a sign of cancer,” says Dale. “They could tell by the scans that my bile ducts were plugged, and so all the bile was building in my body and causing jaundice and the itchiness. The doctors twice tried to put stents in so that the bile could flow into the small bowel again, with no luck.” He says they then tried a biliary drain, a procedure where bile is collected in a bag outside of the body.

“It sounds so strange that an itch can be a sign of cancer” “I had that pouch on me for a couple of weeks before the hospital recommended that I transfer to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi for the complex surgery to remove the cancer.” Dr Naveed Ahmed, the Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary surgeon (liver, pancreas, and bile duct) in the

Dale’s liver-related tests show that his liver has now grown to a normal size and is functioning at an optimum level. He is now undergoing chemotherapy to treat the cancer in his lymph nodes. Dale, a father of three and grandfather to 10, plans to retire at the end of the year. He says that his family wanted him to return to his home in Canada earlier for treatment. “If this had happened back home, I would have avoided seeing a doctor because of the wait times to get an appointment. The healthcare in Abu Dhabi, and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi in particular, is superior. You just walk in, and an integrated team of physicians, surgeons, dieticians, and wound care nurses are by your side to aid your recovery.”

“About 90% of gallbladder cancers are unresectable”

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PROTEIN SHAKES COULD LEAD TO A REDUCED LIFESPAN Researchers from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre have determined that too many protein shakes could lead to an increased risk of obesity and a reduced lifespan. The study was an investigation to ascertain the impact a disproportionate consumption of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) has on the body. Published in the journal Nature Metabolism, the study found that while BCAAs (frequently consumed in the form of powder, which is then added to water to create a shake) help to build muscle, they can also negatively affect a person’s temperament, trigger weight gain and lead to a shortened lifespan. Moreover, it was discovered that high levels of BCAAs in the blood could disrupt sleep by causing decreased serotonin levels. Dr Samantha Solon-Biet, a co-author of the study, explained: “While diets high in protein and low in carbohydrates are shown to be beneficial for reproductive function, they can have a detrimental effect on health in mid-late life, and also lead to a shortened lifespan.

A cluster of three crucial amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine) BCAAs are most commonly found in foods such as red meat and dairy. Whey protein, one of the most prevalent types of protein in the health and fitness sector, contains high levels of BCAA. It is essential to acquire protein from various sources, such as fish, eggs, beans, lentils and nuts. This will provide a variety of essential amino acids through a healthy and balanced diet rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals.

High levels of BCAAs in the blood can disrupt sleep

“What this new research has shown is that amino acid balance is important. It’s best to vary sources of protein to ensure you’re getting the best amino acid balance.” The academic director of the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney, Professor Stephen Simpson, explained how excessive intake of BCAA supplements could bear on an individual›s capacity to achieve a peaceful night›s sleep. “Supplementation of BCAAs resulted in high levels of BCAAs in the blood, which competed with tryptophan for transport into the brain. Tryptophan is the sole precursor for the hormone serotonin, which is often called the ‘happiness chemical’ for its mood-enhancing effects and its role in promoting sleep. But serotonin does more than this, and therein lays the problem.” Professor Simpson added that decreased levels of serotonin lead to a “potent signal to increase appetite”.

They can have a detrimental effect on health in mid-late life, and also lead to a shortened lifespan

124 Myth or Truth

EAT WELL, BE WELL Humankind has been cooking up myths about food since meals were being prepared in caves. These can range from fairly rational tales to far more imaginative notions – some of them quite outlandish. Here, we look at several of the more common claims and whether there is any truth in them.

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CARBOHYDRATES MAKE YOU FAT False: There is nothing intrinsically fattening about carbohydrates. It’s consuming too many calories that put the weight on. Yes, eating lots of sugary and refined-carbohydrate-rich foods, such as white bread and pasta, can increase the risk of developing health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. However, if you cut out ‘good-carb foods’, including whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables, the body’s primary fuel source and vital for nutrients and fibre, it’s a big mistake.

Eggs don’t in fact contribute to high cholesterol

CARROTS ARE GOOD FOR YOUR EYES

BROWN SUGAR IS BETTER FOR YOU THAN WHITE SUGAR

True: Carrots offer a broad spectrum of vitamins, including vitamin A, which improves eye health. However, according to Harvard Medical School, eating fresh fruits and dark leafy green vegetables are even more beneficial.

False: Psychologically, you might feel healthier having brown sugar in the cupboard, but, according to the Cleveland Clinic, you are fooling yourself. The only difference is the taste.

MILK BUILDS STRONG BONES

YOU CAN’T GET ENOUGH PROTEIN ON A VEGAN OR VEGETARIAN DIET

False: A bit of a surprise this one, but no. In 2010, the journal ‘Nutrition in Clinical Practice’ found that milk might be the reason that bones lose calcium. Moreover, in a 2009 study published in the ‘American Journal of Clinical Nutrition’, it was found that the rates of bone fractures were highest in countries that consumed the most dairy.

False: When people think of protein, they more often than not think of beef, poultry, seafood and eggs. However, you don’t need those options to get an appropriate amount of protein - you can easily do that through plants. DRINKING FRUIT JUICE IS AS NUTRITIOUS AS EATING WHOLE FRUIT

ORGANIC FOOD IS HEALTHIER

Milk might be the reason that bones lose calcium

True: There is a mounting body of evidence that shows several potential health benefits of organic foods when compared with conventionally grown foods. These include nutrients (studies have shown small to moderate increase in certain nutrients in organic produce); toxic metal (there are significantly lower cadmium levels in organic grains when compared with conventionally grown crops, which may well be related to the ban on synthetic fertilizers in organic farming); and pesticide residue (compared with conventionally grown produce, organically grown produce has lower detectable levels of pesticide residue).

False: Whole fruit contains vital fibres and nutrients that are removed when juicing. AVOID EGGS BECAUSE OF THEIR CHOLESTEROL CONTENT False: Eggs have gotten a lousy rap over the years. But in a 2018 study in the journal ‘Nutrients’, researchers found eggs do not contribute to high cholesterol. Eggs are a reasonably priced source of many nutrients, including zinc and iron, antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamin D, and the brain-boosting chemical choline.

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Education UAE Issue 7 - The Schools Out Issue

Articles inside

Eat Well, Be Well

Where Can You Travel To From Dubai This Summer?

Protein Shakes Could Lead To A Reduced Lifespan

Life Tastes Better With Kibsons

You Have Vacation Dreams We Have Dream Vacations!

Beat the Heat this Summer at Dubai’s Must-Visit Attractions!

OVS Launches Kidswear Collection

Entertainment Technology And Its Threats On Young Minds

The Lego® Group Brings Two player Action To The Lego® Super Mario™ Universe

Is Your Child Getting The Best Use Out Of The School Counsellor?

How You Can Play A Role In Conserving Water And Safeguarding Our Planet

Star International Mirdif Launchesits ‘ocean Ambassadors’ Programme

How Us College Scholarships Can Change Lives

Education, Experience And Employment – The 3Es Of Business Education

Abu Dhabi University Tops UAE’s Employability Rankings

See The World Differently?

Dubai Students Join Functional Movement Revolution

It Takes Balance To Be A Good Gymnast

ISP Launches A Football School Programme In Spain With Villarreal

Creating A New Generation Of Performers

Dubai Student Wins Title Of ACCA Middle East Finance Competition

Simple Ways To Introduce Social Emotional Learning (SEL) In Your Classroom

Al Futtaim Education Foundation Provides Students With Vocational Internships

The Schools And Nursery Show

Academia Is No Longer Enough

Pearson Highlights Emerging Trends In The Education Industry

State-of-the-art Space Designed To Help Children Thrive

SPEA Participates In SCRF 2021 With Creative Platform

Bright Learners Accommodates Parents Through Its Pre- kindergarten Curriculum

ADEK Opens Registration For National Robot Olympiad Qualifier

New Guide For Parents Promotes Inclusive Education In Dubai